Katz Adjustment Scale – Form R1 (KAS-R1)

Abstract

This chapter is a comprehensive reference manual providing information on the Katz Adjustment Scale – Form R1 (KAS-R1) set of five rating scales was originally developed for the psychiatric population “for objectively assessing the adjustment and social behaviour”. Form R1 of the KAS uses relatives’ ratings of patient symptoms and social behaviour. The KAS-R1 was one of the few instruments to provide a comprehensive overview of adjustment and social behaviour, focusing on the regulatory aspects of behaviour, thought and emotions. It was developed for people with psychiatric disorders and consequently there are limitations in its application to neurological groups. A brief history of the instrument's development is provided, along with a description of item content and administration/scoring procedures. Psychometric properties are reviewed and a critical commentary is provided. Key references are cited and in most cases the actual scale is included, giving the reader easy access to the instrument.