Construct validity of dimensions of adaptive behavior: a multitrait-multimethod evaluation

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Behavioral Science
• Disability Studies

Background:

• Assessing adaptive and maladaptive behaviors is crucial for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
• Understanding the construct validity of these assessments ensures accurate measurement and intervention planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the construct validity of four dimensions of adaptive and maladaptive behavior.
• To examine the multitrait-multimethod matrix of behavioral assessments in individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the multitrait-multimethod matrix procedure with 157 individuals with moderate, severe, or profound intellectual disability.
• Employed standardized assessment instruments and ratings from day and evening shift staff.
• Applied Campbell and Fiske's rules and structural equation modeling techniques.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated strong convergent validity, indicating measures of the same trait are highly correlated.
• Showcased clear discriminant validity, confirming measures of different traits are distinct.
• Observed moderate levels of method variance, suggesting measurement methods influenced results to some extent.

Conclusions:

• The study supports the construct validity of the assessed dimensions of adaptive and maladaptive behavior.
• Results have implications for refining the assessment of adaptive behavior and understanding its dimensional structure in intellectual disability research.
• The findings contribute to more accurate behavioral evaluations and targeted support for individuals with intellectual disabilities.