Reliability and Validity of the Target Behaviour Severity Scale: A Pilot Study

Abstract

This pilot study examined the reliability, validity, and, usability of the Target Behaviour Severity Scale (TBSS), which was designed for use as a program evaluation tool for ABA-based clinical services. The TBSS measures four dimensions of behaviour: frequency, intensity, duration, and discrimination, and yields a total severity score. Participants included eleven consultants and 25 caregivers of individuals with DD receiving publically funded behavioural services to treat dangerous behaviour, tantrums, disruptive behaviour, and skill deficits. The total severity score had acceptable internal consistency (consultant α = .714, caregiver α = .730). Examination of inter-rater reliability revealed that caregivers’ total severity scores were significantly higher than consultants’ scores though they shared a strong and significant positive relationship. The reliability coefficients of the dimension scales were variable, suggesting the need for some refinements. The results of this pilot study suggest that the TBSS holds promise as a program evaluation tool.