Diagnostic utility of the Pervasive Developmental Disorder Behavior Inventory

This study assessed the diagnostic utility of the Pervasive Developmental Disorder Behavior Inventory (PDDBI) in a sample of 84 children aged 3–12 years of age. Forty-two children with ASD were individually matched on age and non-verbal IQ to 42 children with other disabilities and groups were compared on PDDBI subscales and total score. Results indicated that the groups differed on the total score and on only one of the 14 subscales. Optimal sensitivity and specificity were achieved using a cutoff score of 45 on the Autism Composite T-score. Diagnostic accuracy was not good (sensitivity = .74, specificity = .62, efficiency = .68), but better in individuals with NVIQ < 70. We do not recommend the PDDBI for diagnostic screening.

► We assessed the diagnostic utility of the Pervasive Developmental Disorder Behavior Inventory.
► 42 children with ASD were individually matched on age and NVIQ to 42 children with other disabilities.
► Diagnostic accuracy was not good, but better in children with NVIQ < 70.
► We do not recommend the PDDBI for diagnostic screening.