A Russian Translation of the BRIEF2 Disproportionately Flags Typical Russian and Previously Institutionalized Individuals on Validity Scales

Abstract

The Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF) is a commonly used tool for researchers and clinicians to assess executive functioning, especially in individuals with learning or other developmental disorders. Although it has been translated and used in multiple countries, the BRIEF has only been officially normed by its manufacturers in U.S. samples. In order to further the ideal of cultural sensitivity in psychological testing and examine whether the BRIEF functions appropriately in Russia and in its distinct subpopulations (e.g., individuals with an early history of adversity), we assessed the performance of its built-in validity scales by administering the BRIEF2 Self-Report Form to a Russian sample (n=572) either raised in biological families (n=315) or with a history of institutionalized care (n=257). Results indicate that, compared to U.S. norms, a large number of this sample was flagged for inconsistent or abnormal answers on the BRIEF2 validity scales. This finding highlights the importance of validity checks when psychological tools are used in new cultures, languages, and samples. Results point to a need for fine-tuning of the BRIEF2 Self-Report Form and/or its scoring system before widespread adaptation among Russian clinicians and researchers.