Citation

Kobes MH, Nijman HH, Bulten EB. Arch. Psychiatr. Nurs. 2012; 26(6): 487-494.

Affiliation

Forensic Psychiatric Hospital Pompe Foundation, Division Diagnostics Research and Education, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Mental Health Institute Altrecht, Division Ortho- and Forensic Psychiatry, Den Dolder, The Netherlands; Behavioural Science Institute (BSI) of Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands; Academic Centre for Social Sciences (ACSW), Radboud University, Nijmegen, The Netherlands. Electronic address: m.kobes@pompestichting.nl.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2012, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.apnu.2012.04.004

PMID

23164405

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: Accurate observation of aggressive behavior among forensic psychiatric patients requires valid instruments. This study examines the validity and clinical utility of combining the social dysfunction and aggression scale (SDAS) and staff observation aggression scale revised (SOAS-R). METHODS: Nurses weekly obtained SDAS scores of 127 patients, resulting in 6.124 assessments. Aggressive incidents were documented by the SOAS-R. Internal consistency, subscale structure, interobserver reliability of the SDAS, and convergent validity with SOAS-R were analyzed. CONCLUSION: A three-factor solution was found. Interobserver reliability was moderate, and good convergent validity was found. The SDAS, in conjunction with the SOAS-R, monitors changes in aggressiveness and may contribute to the prevention of aggressive behavior.

Language: en