developmental quotient
Also written as: DQ
A standardized score expressing a child's developmental level as a ratio of developmental age to chronological age.
Full Definition
Developmental quotient (DQ) is a numerical expression of a child's developmental progress, calculated by dividing the developmental age by the chronological age and multiplying by 100. A DQ of 100 indicates typical development, while scores below 85 may suggest developmental delays requiring intervention. Unlike IQ scores, DQ scores are used specifically for young children and focus on developmental milestones rather than cognitive abilities alone. DQ scores are commonly derived from comprehensive developmental assessments and are used to track progress and determine eligibility for early intervention services.
Usage
Usage note: Always clarify whether referring to overall DQ or domain-specific DQ scores.
In Context
- "The child's developmental quotient of 78 indicated significant delays across multiple domains." — Assessment report
- "A DQ below 70 typically qualifies a child for intensive early intervention services." — Eligibility determination