Psychometric validation of the Sensory Experiences Questionnaire

Am J Occup Ther. 2011 Mar-Apr;65(2):207-10. doi: 10.5014/ajot.2011.000844.

Abstract

Introduction: We evaluated the psychometric properties of the Sensory Experiences Questionnaire (Version 1; Baranek, David, Poe, Stone, & Watson 2006), a brief caregiver questionnaire for young children with autism and developmental delays used to identify sensory processing patterns in the context of daily activities.

Method: Caregiver questionnaires (N=358) were analyzed to determine internal consistency. The test-retest subsample (n=24) completed two assessments within 2-4 wk. Internal consistency and test-retest reliability were analyzed using Cronbach's coefficient alpha and intraclass correlation coefficients, respectively.

Results: Internal consistency for the SEQ was alpha = .80. Test-retest reliability for the total score was excellent, with ICC = .92.

Discussion: The SEQ is an internally consistent and reliable caregiver report measure of young children's sensory processing patterns of hypo- and hyperresponsiveness. The SEQ can be used as an early tool for identifying sensory patterns in young children with autism and other developmental disabilities.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Validation Study

MeSH terms

  • Autistic Disorder / diagnosis*
  • Caregivers
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Developmental Disabilities / diagnosis*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Psychometrics
  • Surveys and Questionnaires*