Identifying at-risk preschoolers: The discriminant validity of the differential ability scales

Abstract

The discriminant validity of the Upper Preschool Level of the Differential Ability Scales (DAS) was studied using 32 at-risk preschoolers (females = 14, males = 18) with a mean age of 57.28 months (SD = 4.43) and 30 normal preschoolers (females = 13, males = 17) with a mean age of 56.40 months (SD = 6.46). The results indicated that the DAS was an excellent measure to use when trying to differentiate between at-risk and normal preschoolers. The DAS could reliably identify, better than chance, whether a child was at-risk or normal. Specifically, the General Conceptual Ability score was found to be approximately 77% accurate in correctly classifying at-risk from normal preschoolers. In addition, the use of the DAS in an abbreviated format by selecting specific core and/or diagnostic subtests during the preschool screening process was strongly supported. © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.