Assessment of Social Competence and Problem Behavior: The Psychometric Properties of a Social Competency Rating Form

Abstract

Intervention programs commonly target the development of social competencies and the prevention of problem behaviors among children. Practical assessment measures are necessary for evaluating these interventions. Examination of popularly used instruments reveals the need for a brief rating scale that measures both social competencies and problem behaviors. The Social Competency Rating Form (Gottfredson et al., 2002) is a brief 29-item scale designed to be user-friendly and closely aligned with the objectives of cognitive-behavioral social skills training programs for adolescents. It also serves as a research tool in studying social competence and problem behaviors, especially in the context of evaluating intervention programs. This study shows an adaptation of the SCRF to be a reliable and valid measure for use with elementary school children.