Early Assessment and Tests for Adaptive Behavior

Abstract

Intellectual disability (ID) is characterized by significant impairments in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior. Adaptive behavior is a collection of conceptual, social, and practical skills required by individuals to function in their everyday lives. With increased recognition that early intervention is crucial for remediating delays and improving treatment outcomes across skill domains, there has been increased research on the early assessment of intellectual and developmental delays. Tests for developmental and adaptive behavior have been designed to assess the level of developmental functioning and adaptive behavior throughout the lifespan, from infancy to adulthood. These scales measure developmental deficits across broad and specific skill domains and aid in the diagnosis of ID or other developmental disabilities. In addition, results from these behavior scales can be used to determine eligibility of support services, guide intervention planning, and monitor treatment progress. Commonly used developmental scales and tests for adaptive behavior will be reviewed in this chapter.