Assessing the African American Child and Adolescent: Special Considerations and Assessment of Behavioral Disorders

Abstract

African American youth are unduly impacted by a number of societal factors that place them at a higher risk of developing behavioral disorders. However, when assessing behavioral disorders in African American children, there are several factors that must be taken into consideration. This chapter begins by discussing cultural factors and other considerations (i.e., respondent biases, cultural appropriateness) important to the assessment context and process. Further, the most common methods for assessing behavioral disorders in African American youth are examined, with an emphasis on behavior rating scales. The current review not only includes mainstream measures, but also evaluates a rating scale designed to be culturally responsive to the unique experiences of African American youth (i.e., BACAH). In each case, psychometric properties of the scale are included, as well as a critique of the utility of each measure for use with African Americans, including strengths, limitations, and special considerations for each battery. The chapter concludes with recommendations for those in the field committed to the culturally informed assessment of behavioral disorders among African American youth.