Psychometric evaluation of the structured clinical interview for DSM-IV childhood diagnoses (KID-SCID)

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the reliability and validity of selected modules of the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM IV (KID-SCID, Version 1.0). The Disruptive Behavior Disorders (i.e., ADHD, ODD, CD) and Substance Related Disorders modules of the KID-SCID were administered to 50 adolescents receiving residential treatment for substance abuse and severe behavioral problems. This study examined available evidence for inter-rater reliability and convergent validity. Convergent validity was demonstrated for the Disruptive Behavior Disorders module, however, the Substance Abuse Disorders module failed to converge with frequency of use for most substances. Inter-rater reliability was generally high. This research provides initial evidence for both the reliability and validity of the Disruptive Behavior and Substance Abuse Disorders modules of the KID-SCID, making these modules useful in clinical practice with adolescents in treatment for substance abuse and conduct disorder.