Concurrent validity of the scale for screening of developmental delay

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Developmental Psychology
• Clinical Assessment

Background:

• Developmental delay screening is crucial for early intervention.
• Validated tools are essential for accurate clinical assessment.
• The Screening Scale of Developmental Delay II (SSDD-II) requires concurrent validity testing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish the concurrent validity of the SSDD-II against the established Bayley Scale of Infant Development II (BSID-II).
• To assess the reliability and convenience of the SSDD-II for screening developmental delays in a Taiwanese pediatric population.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 379 children referred for developmental delay assessment were tested.
• Initial testing used the SSDD-II, followed by BSID-II testing within 1 week to 1 month.
• Statistical analysis focused on correlations between SSDD-II subscales and BSID-II Mental and Motor scales, as well as BSID-II facet scales.

Main Results:

• SSDD-II scores demonstrated a positive correlation with increasing age, aligning with developmental principles.
• Significant correlations were found between the SSDD-II subscales and both the raw scores (Mental and Motor) and facet scale scores (language, cognitive, motor) of the BSID-II.
• The SSDD-II exhibited high concurrent validity, indicating strong agreement with the BSID-II.

Conclusions:

• The SSDD-II is a valid and reliable tool for screening developmental delays in children.
• Its convenience makes it suitable for practical application in clinical settings in Taiwan.
• The findings support the use of SSDD-II for early identification of developmental concerns.