Comparisons: BASC-2 Parent and Teacher Reports for Children on the DSM-5 Autism Spectrum

With the publication of the DSM-5, the diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has been altered to follow a dimensional model that captures the essence of the autism spectrum. This new model features severity ratings of Social Communication (SC) and Restrictive/Repetitive Behaviors (RRB). Research indicates that there has also been a recent increase in the administration and adoption of broadband behavior-rating scales by clinicians, to ascertain a summary of the client’s behavior. A widely known and accepted measure is the Behavior Assessment System for Children, Second Edition (BASC-2), a multidimensional measure assessing internalizing and externalizing behaviors as well as adaptive functioning for individuals 2-25 years of age. Considerably less research has compared the Parent Rating Scale (PRS) and Teacher Rating Scale (TRS) of the BASC-2. The current study examined the PRS and TRS of the BASC-2 for children on the DSM-5 autism spectrum. Utilizing a sample of 67 children and adolescents with ASD, the PRS and TRS of the BASC-2 were compared to determine if a pattern of behavior exists for children and adolescents with ASD. Paired Sample T-tests were used to compare the BASC-2 Subscales scores on the PRS and TRS. Hierarchical linear regression analysis was conducted to determine the extent to which Parent and Teacher Ratings of logically selected BASC-2 Subscales account for the DSM-5 SC Severity Rating and RRB Severity Rating. Implications of these results for the assessment of children and adolescents with ASD are explained