Validation and determining an optimal cut-off score of the Infant Behavior Checklist for autism spectrum disorder

Toshinobu Takeda1, Hirokazu Osada2, Yui Tsuji3

  • 1Faculty of Psychology Ryukoku University Kyoto Japan.

Insights

This study validates the Infant Behavior Checklist (IBC) for screening autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in Japan. The IBC shows good validity and reliability, offering a valuable tool for early identification of ASD.

Area of Science:

  • Child Psychiatry
  • Developmental Psychology
  • Clinical Psychology

Background:

  • Rising prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) necessitates reliable screening tools.
  • Japan faces a shortage of child psychiatrists, increasing the need for efficient diagnostic aids.
  • The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of adaptable screening methods.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To validate the Infant Behavior Checklist (IBC) developed by Japanese experts for ASD screening.
  • To determine an appropriate cut-off score for the IBC in the Japanese context.
  • To assess the psychometric properties of the IBC for ASD identification.

Main Methods:

  • 354 clinic-referred children and their caregivers participated.
  • Statistical analysis of clinical records and IBC assessments.
  • Diagnostic interviews were used to confirm diagnoses.

Main Results:

  • The IBC demonstrated good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.77).
  • IBC scores were significantly higher in children with ASD compared to non-ASD cases.
  • The optimal cut-off score yielded an AUC of 0.803, with high sensitivity (0.94) and specificity (0.79).

Conclusions:

  • The IBC is a valid screening instrument for ASD with satisfactory psychometric properties.
  • High sensitivity and specificity support the IBC's utility for early ASD detection.
  • Further research is recommended to confirm the clinical applicability of the IBC.
Abstract

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