Criterion-related validity of the PDD Behavior Inventory

Area of Science:

• Child Psychology
• Developmental Disorders
• Behavioral Assessment

Background:

• The PDD Behavior Inventory (PDDBI) is a tool for assessing Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD).
• It measures maladaptive and adaptive behaviors and provides an "Autism Score" for severity.
• Previous research established its internal consistency and construct validity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the criterion-related validity of the PDDBI.
• To determine if PDDBI scores correlate with other established measures of autism and behavior.
• To confirm the PDDBI's utility in assessing treatment-related changes.

Main Methods:

• Correlational analysis was used to assess criterion-related validity.
• PDDBI scores were compared with the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) and Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R).
• PDDBI subscales were correlated with the Nisonger Child Behavior Rating Form (N-CBRF), Griffiths Mental Development Scales (GMDS), and Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales (VABS).

Main Results:

• The PDDBI showed good correlations with the CARS and ADI-R.
• Maladaptive scales of the PDDBI correlated well with comparable factors on the N-CBRF.
• Adaptive sections of the PDDBI demonstrated high correlations with the GMDS and VABS.

Conclusions:

• The study confirms the criterion-related validity of the PDDBI.
• The PDDBI is a valid tool for assessing maladaptive and adaptive behaviors in children with PDD.
• The findings support the PDDBI's value in monitoring treatment outcomes for autism spectrum disorder.