Predictive Validity of Using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire for Early Warning System Indicators

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  In Roundtable Session: Tools and Programs Supporting Teachers' Data Use (Table 20)

Abstract

Early warning systems (EWS) have been promoted as a way of identifying students at risk of dropout. There is potential for behavior screeners like the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) to aid in the prediction and prevention of outcomes flagged through early warning systems. This cross-sectional study used data from middle school students. EWS indicators were reported by each school. Of the 2,819 students who completed the SDQ, 89% were Black and 51% were male. There are associations between gender and race with EWS indicators, which include direct and indirect effects through the mediation of SDQ subscales. This suggests that there is potential value in utilizing screeners like the SDQ in the prevention and early intervention of EWS-flagged concerns.

Authors

• Emily Graybill, Rutgers University

• Sofia Awan, Georgia State University

• Brian Barger, Georgia State University

• Ashley Salmon, Georgia State University