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Self-Control Rating Scale
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About Self-Control Rating Scale
Scale Name
Self-Control Rating Scale
Author Details
Philip C. Kendall and Lauren E. Wilcox
Translation Availability
English

Background/Description
The Self-Control Rating Scale (SCRS), developed by Philip C. Kendall and Lauren E. Wilcox in 1979, is a 33-item teacher- or parent-rated questionnaire designed to assess self-control behaviors in children aged 5–13 years. Published in Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology (1979), the SCRS measures cognitive-behavioral aspects of self-control, such as inhibiting impulses, planning, and attention regulation, for identifying children with self-control deficits (e.g., hyperactivity, impulsivity) and evaluating treatment outcomes. Items are rated on a 7-point scale (1 = maximum self-control to 7 = minimum self-control), with total scores ranging from 33–231 (higher = poorer self-control; cutoff ≈ 140 for clinical concern).
The SCRS was validated with ~200 children (mean age ≈ 5–13 years, mixed gender, U.S.-based), correlating with behavioral observations (r ≈ 0.50–0.70). It is used in school psychology, child clinical psychology, and behavioral interventions.
Administration, Scoring and Interpretation
- Obtain the SCRS from Kendall & Wilcox (1979) or Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, ensuring ethical permissions.
- Explain to raters (teachers/parents of children 5–13) that the scale assesses self-control behaviors, emphasizing confidentiality and voluntary participation.
- Administer the 33-item rating scale in school or home settings, with raters scoring based on recent observations on a 7-point scale.
- Estimated completion time is 5–10 minutes.
- Ensure a supportive environment; provide behavioral resources (e.g., referrals) and adapt for accessibility (e.g., clear instructions) if needed.
Reliability and Validity
The SCRS demonstrates strong psychometric properties (Kendall & Wilcox, 1979). Internal consistency is high (Cronbach’s alpha ≈ 0.95–0.98, N ≈ 200). Test-retest reliability is strong (r ≈ 0.84 over 3–4 weeks). Inter-rater reliability (teacher-parent) is moderate (r ≈ 0.52). Convergent validity is supported by correlations with behavioral observations (r ≈ 0.50–0.70) and hyperactivity measures. Discriminant validity is evidenced by its ability to differentiate self-controlled from impulsive children. Factor analysis supports a unidimensional self-control construct. The SCRS reliably assesses child self-control. Pairing with the Conners Rating Scales enhances comprehensive assessment.
Available Versions
33-Items
Reference
Kendall, P. C., & Wilcox, L. E. (1979). Self-control in children: development of a rating scale. Journal of Consulting and Clinical psychology, 47(6), 1020.
Important Link
Scale File:
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the SCRS measure?
It measures self-control behaviors in children, focusing on impulse inhibition and planning.
Who is the target population?
Children (5–13 years) with potential self-control issues in school or home settings.
How long does it take to administer?
Approximately 5–10 minutes.
Can it inform interventions?
Yes, it identifies deficits to guide behavioral therapy for impulsivity/hyperactivity.
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