One-Year Stability of the Devereux Early Childhood Assessment for Preschoolers, Second Edition

Abstract

The Devereux Early Childhood Assessment (DECA) and recently updated Devereux Early Childhood Assessment for Preschoolers, Second Edition (DECA-P2) are strength-based measures that can inform early intervention. Whereas the short-term psychometric properties of these parent rating scales are strong, little is known about their long-term stability. Study findings from a diverse Head Start sample ( N = 282, DECA; N = 346, DECA-P2) revealed 12-month, test–retest reliability of protective factors ( r = .65) to be equivalent on the DECA-P2 and the DECA. The stability of parent ratings of behavior concerns appears improved in the newer edition ( r = .53 vs. r = .46). Additional consideration should be given to the stability of the DECA-P2 and its use as short- and long-term social, emotional, and behavioral intervention progress monitoring tool.