Measuring the Function of School Refusal Behavior: The School Refusal Assessment Scale

Abstract

Addressed deficiencies of traditional classification approaches to school refusal behavior through the development of the School Refusal Assessment Scale (SRAS). The scale identifies maintaining variables of school refusal behavior, including dimensions of negative and positive reinforcement. Results indicated child and parent versions of the scale to be reliable across time and between parent raters. Correlational data supported the hypothesis that separate functional conditions could be distinguished. The SRAS is proposed as a potentially useful clinical tool for objectively assigning prescriptive treatment strategies for this population. Recommendations for further research are discussed.