Criterion-Related Validity of the PDD Behavior Inventory

The PDD Behavior Inventory (PDDBI) is a rating scale filled out by parents and teachers that is designed to assess response to intervention in children with PDD. It consists of subscales that measure both maladaptive and adaptive behaviors and also provides a summary “Autism Score” reflective of the severity of the condition. The scale has been shown to have very good internal consistency as well as developmental and construct validity. In this study, the PDDBI's criterion-related validity was assessed. Correlations with the Childhood Autism Rating Scale and the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised were good. Selected maladaptive scales from the PDDBI correlated well with comparable factors of the Nisonger Child Behavior Rating Form. The adaptive sections of the PDDBI correlated highly with the Griffiths Mental Development Scales and with the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales. These results confirm the validity of the PDDBI and suggest that the scale will have value in assessing treatment-related changes in maladaptive and adaptive behaviors associated with PDD.