Achenbach YSR

• Welcome to the Outcome Assessment forum by John Grohol, 9/18/96
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    • Reliable & valid measures for children by Steven M.S. Kurtz, Ph.D., 9/18/97
      
      

I have been using the Achenbach Youth Self Report (YSR), in an inpatient setting, as a screening instrument. It is useful when the information can be corroborated through different sources, such as the social history and psychiatric interview. In fact it is designed to be used in corroboration with other instruments developed by Achenbach, including the CBCL and Teacher Report Form. Achenbach and his colleagues have published a number of papers exploring the validity and reliability of the instrument. I have found it difficult to use this instrument as an outcome measure, particular in an inpatient setting. For example, some youngster's initially minimize their problems. However, through treatment, they might begin to verbalize their issues. In such cases scores on the YSR might actually increase as a result of treatment. The YSR can be an effective measure as part of the diagnostic process, but more research needs to be done in regard to using it as an outcome measure, particularly in an inpatient setting.

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