Examining the Technical Adequacy of the Social, Academic, and Emotional Behavior Risk Screener

Abstract

Many schools attempt to identify and service students at risk for poor mental health outcomes within a multi-tiered system of support (MTSS). Universal screening within a MTSS requires technically adequate tools. The Social, Academic, and Emotional Behavior Risk Screener (SAEBRS) has been put forth as a technically adequate screener. Researchers have examined the factor structure, diagnostic accuracy, criterion validity, and internal consistency of SAEBRS data. However, previous research has not examined its temporal stability or replicated the criterion validity results with a racially/ethnically diverse urban elementary school sample. This study examined the test–retest reliability, convergent validity, and predictive validity of teacher-completed SAEBRS ratings with racially/ethnically diverse group students enrolled in first through fifth grade in an urban elementary school. Reliability analyses resulted in significant test–retest reliability coefficients across four weeks for all SAEBRS scales. Furthermore, nonsignificant paired samples t tests were observed with the exception of the third-grade Emotional subscale. Validity analyses yielded significant concurrent and predictive Pearson correlation coefficients between SAEBRS ratings, oral reading fluency, and office discipline referrals. Limitations and implications of the results are discussed.