[Assessment of behavioral problems in children with intellectual disability: the Nisonger Child Behavior Rating Form]

Abstract

Epidemiological data show a high prevalence of emotional and behavioral problems in children with intellectual disability. However there is a lack of standardized instruments designed to assess emotions and behaviors typically seen in mentally handicapped children. The results of a survey using the "Nisonger Child Behavior Rating Form" are presented. Reliability coefficients, concordance of parent and teacher ratings, convergent and differential validity data are satisfactory to suggest its clinical use to identify problem areas which deserve special attention in the mental health care of children with intellectual disability.