Development and validation of the Affect in Play Scale-brief rating version (APS-BR)

Area of Science:

• Child Psychology
• Developmental Psychology
• Clinical Assessment

Background:

• The Affect in Play Scale (APS) is a key measure of pretend play.
• Its reliance on videotaping and extensive scoring training limits clinical applicability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a brief rating version of the APS (APS-BR).
• To create a more clinically useful measure of children's pretend play.

Main Methods:

• Construct validity was assessed by comparing APS-BR scores with the original APS using existing videotaped play data (n=46).
• Associations between APS-BR scores and measures of divergent thinking and emotional memories were examined.
• A pilot study (n=28) evaluated the APS-BR's in vivo efficacy.

Main Results:

• Scores on the APS-BR demonstrated strong correlations with the original APS.
• The pattern of correlations with criterion measures was similar for both APS and APS-BR.
• The pilot study indicated the APS-BR is effective in its intended format.

Conclusions:

• The APS-BR is a valid and reliable brief measure of children's pretend play.
• It serves as a viable substitute for the APS in clinical and research settings.
• The APS-BR enhances the practical utility of pretend play assessment.