Behavioral Activation Scale
Also written as: BADS — Behavioral Activation for Depression Scale
Standardized instrument measuring an individual's level of goal-directed activity and engagement with rewarding experiences.
Full Definition
A psychometric tool that quantifies the degree to which individuals engage in meaningful, goal-directed activities that provide reinforcement and life satisfaction. These scales typically assess activity level, avoidance behaviors, work/school impairment, and social impairment across multiple domains. The Behavioral Activation for Depression Scale (BADS) is the most widely used version, containing subscales for activation, avoidance/rumination, work/school impairment, and social impairment. Such scales are essential for treatment planning, progress monitoring, and outcome evaluation in behavioral interventions for depression and other conditions characterized by behavioral withdrawal.
Usage
Usage note: BADS specifically refers to the depression-focused version. Use full term for other variants.
In Context
- "Pre-treatment scores on the Behavioral Activation Scale indicated significant activity restriction." — Clinical assessment summary
- "The BADS showed clinically significant improvement following eight weeks of intervention." — Treatment outcome documentation