A Multidimensional Behavior Rating Scale (SCAMBS-DRS) for Pediatric Dental Care: Development and Validation

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Dentistry
• Behavioral Science
• Child Psychology

Background:

• Pediatric dental settings require effective tools to manage diverse child behaviors.
• Children with special healthcare needs often present unique behavioral challenges in dental environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate the SCAMBS rating scale (SCAMBS-DRS) for assessing multidimensional behavioral difficulties in pediatric dental settings.
• To evaluate the scale's utility for children with and without special healthcare needs.

Main Methods:

• An initial 42-item scale was refined to a 34-item version through expert consultation and literature review.
• Content validation involved eight experts, and usability testing was conducted with 46 dental professionals.
• Inter-rater reliability was assessed using Fleiss' Kappa.

Main Results:

• The SCAMBS-DRS demonstrated strong content validity with a Global Average CVI of 0.95.
• Domain-specific CVI scores ranged from 0.92 to 0.97, indicating robust content.
• Substantial inter-rater agreement was achieved (Fleiss' Kappa = 0.765).

Conclusions:

• The SCAMBS-DRS is a promising, valid, and clinically practical tool for assessing children's behavioral profiles in pediatric dentistry.
• It aids in identifying developmental and sensory issues, supporting personalized behavior management.
• The scale can improve treatment efficiency and outcomes for all children, including those with special healthcare needs.