The Adaptive Social Behavior Inventory (Asbi): A New Assessment of Social Competence in High-Risk Three-Year-Olds

Abstract

This article describes a new inventory for preschool social development. Scale construction was undertaken as an ancillary project in a multi-site study of early intervention for high-risk infants. Scale development began with extensive review; piloting was conducted to ensure appropriateness for mothers of varying educational levels. Descriptive and psychometric data on the 30-item inventory are presented for the sample of 545 3-year-olds. The three subscales are Express, Comply, and Disrupt. Intercorrelations among the scales are reported, as well as correlations with other competence variables. Differences are noted for gender and site, but not birthweight. Potential value of the inventory is discussed.

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