SDQ
Also written as: SDQ — Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire
A screening tool for behavioral and emotional problems in children and adolescents aged 3-16 years.
Full Definition
The Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) is a brief behavioral screening questionnaire developed by Robert Goodman. It assesses emotional symptoms, conduct problems, hyperactivity, peer relationships, and prosocial behavior. The SDQ is available in parent, teacher, and self-report versions and is widely used in clinical settings to identify children who may benefit from mental health intervention. It provides both a total difficulties score and subscale scores for specific areas of concern.
Usage
Usage note: Use the acronym SDQ in clinical documentation; spell out on first use in formal reports.
In Context
- "The SDQ indicated elevated scores in the emotional symptoms and peer problems subscales." — Clinical assessment report
- "Teachers completed the SDQ-T to provide classroom behavioral observations for the evaluation." — School consultation note