Criterion-related validation of the California Adaptive Behavior Scale

Abstract

The California Adaptive Behavior Scale (CABS), an assessment tool for the evaluation of skill levels of mentally handicapped persons, was compared to the Basic Life Skills Scale (BLS) in an attempt to provide criterion-related validation of the CABS as an adaptive behavior scale. Pearson Product Correlation Coefficients were used to demonstrate validity. Principal Component Factor Analysis was conducted to determine the set of variables the CABS may share with the BLS among extracted factors. Results showed that the CABS overall score had a high relationship with the BLS overall score, and there was a high degree of relationship between skills measured by both scales. Extracted factors showed clear differentiation between groups of variables of both scales. Use of the CABS seems to have prescribed limits which must be considered. The findings of the statistical analyses indicated that while the BLS and CABS measure adaptive behavior, they do so in different ways. Further study is required to provide a larger sample base for normative data. The CABS provides a simple, quick assessment of skills in the mentally handicapped population and is a valuable method of measuring adaptive behavior in the population used in this study.