What is Indirect Assessment?
Indirect Assessment involves gathering information without actually observing the behavior yourself. You are relying on the memory and reports of others.
Common forms:
- Interviews: Asking parents "What does the tantrum look like?"
- Checklists/Surveys: Giving the teacher a QABF (Questions About Behavioral Function) or FAST (Functional Analysis Screening Tool).
For your RBT practice test, remember: Indirect = No Observation. Direct = Observation.
Why Use It?
It is a great starting point. Before you spend hours watching a child, ask the mom! She knows her child best. It helps generate a hypothesis.
Limitations
It is Subjective. Parents might exaggerate ("He cries for 5 hours!" when it was really 20 minutes) or forget details. It is the least reliable form of FBA, but the easiest to do.
Frequently Asked Questions About Indirect Assessment
What is the main downside?
It is subject to memory bias and is subjective.
Do RBTs generally conduct these?
No, usually the BCBA conducts the interview. The RBT might assist in handing out surveys.
Is it reliable?
Not very. It should always be backed up by Direct Assessment.
What are examples of tools?
FAST, QABF, MAS (Motivation Assessment Scale).