Overt Behaviour Scale

(Kelly, Todd, Simpson, Kremer, & Martin, 2006) 

What does it assess?

• This scale is designed to clarify the types of observable challenging behaviours that can occur following acquired brain injury (ABI). 

Who is it suitable for?

• Adults with ABI.
• Designed to be used in community settings, but has also been used in hospitals. 

How is it administered?

• Direct observation (over a number sessions) and/or interview of one or more informants. 

How is it scored/ interpreted?

• Provides descriptive information from the rating scale.
• List of problem behaviours identified, as well as their type, severity, frequency and impact.

How does it contribute to a communication assessment for someone with behaviours of concern?

• The OBS enables identification of challenging behaviours and provides a measure of change over time, but it does not identify their functions. It may be most useful as a first step prior to a functional assessment, such as through a MAS or QAFB. 

References

Kelly, G., Todd, J., Simpson, G., Kremer, P., & Martin, C. (2006). The overt behaviour scale (OBS): A tool for measuring challenging behaviours following ABI in community settings. Brain Injury, 20, 307-319.