The validity of the Katz adjustment scale among people with traumatic brain injury

Abstract

Deficits in self- and social awareness can impair adjustment following traumatic brain injury (TBI) and draw into question the accuracy of self- report measures of adjustment. This study evaluates the validity of Katz Adjustment Scale (KAS) factor components identified by R. J. Fabiano and D. A. Goran (1992). The KAS is an observer rating scale often used to assess the social adjustment of people with traumatic brain injury. The responses of 105 individuals with TBI to the Symptom Checklist 90-Revised (SCL-90-R; L. R. Derogatis, 1983), a self-report measure of distress, were correlated with observer ratings on the KAS. Results support the use of observer ratings and self-report to assess adjustment and social behavior following TBI. Each contributes valuable information that can guide treatment and enhance adaptive functioning.