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The Behavioral and Emotional Rating Scale: Test-Retest and Inter-Rater Reliability

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Abstract

Two studies are reported addressing the reliability of the Behavioral and Emotional Rating Scale (BERS). The first study investigated test-retest reliability over a two-week period to determine the stability of the measure over time. The second study investigated inter-rater reliability between two teachers or classroom aides who were familiar with a student to determine the consistency with which the measure can be used by different individuals. In each study, samples were drawn from populations of students identified with emotional or behavioral disorders as specified by federal statutes. Reliability coefficients in each study were above .80, the standard recommended for screening tests that are reported individually, and in most cases above .90. Implications for use of the BERS are discussed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, Nebraska

    Michael H. Epstein (Professor, Special Education and Communication Disorders)

  2. University of Washington-Tacoma, Tacoma, Washington

    Mark K. Harniss (Assistant Professor)

  3. PRO-ED, Austin, Texas

    Nils Pearson (Director of Research)

  4. PRO-ED, Austin, Texas

    Gail Ryser (Associate Director of Research)

Authors
  1. Michael H. Epstein
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  2. Mark K. Harniss
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  3. Nils Pearson
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  4. Gail Ryser
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Correspondence to Michael H. Epstein.

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Epstein, M.H., Harniss, M.K., Pearson, N. et al. The Behavioral and Emotional Rating Scale: Test-Retest and Inter-Rater Reliability. Journal of Child and Family Studies 8, 319–327 (1999). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1022067329751

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1022067329751

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