Boston Social Skills Scale BETA (BSSS)

By James Paicopolos

Disclaimer

This Social Emotional Development Scale (BSSS) is an experimental instrument presently undergoing validation and refinement. It is intended solely for research and developmental purposes at this stage and should not be construed as a diagnostic or clinical tool. The BSSS has not yet been subjected to comprehensive reliability and validity studies, nor is it normed for any specific population. Any data, results, or inferences obtained from the use of the BSSS should be interpreted with appropriate caution. The instrument is not intended to inform legal decisions, eligibility for services, or individualized clinical interventions. Users are advised to supplement findings from the SEDS with established methods and to adhere to all applicable professional, legal, and ethical standards when administering and interpreting this measure. The developers of the BSSS disclaim all warranties, expressed or implied, regarding the accuracy, applicability, or outcomes of the instrument at this stage of development. By administering or utilizing the BSSS the user acknowledges these limitations and accepts all associated risks and responsibilities.

Ages 2.5 - 9 Years | 30-Item Assessment

Assessment Information

Instructions

Rate each item based on how well it describes the child's typical behavior. Use the following scale:

0 = Never - This behavior is never observed
1 = Rarely - This behavior occurs less than 25% of the time
2 = Sometimes - This behavior occurs 25-50% of the time
3 = Often - This behavior occurs 50-75% of the time
4 = Always - This behavior occurs more than 75% of the time

Domain 1: Self-Awareness (Questions 1-6)

1. The child can identify and name their own emotions (happy, sad, angry, scared)

0 1 2 3 4

2. The child recognizes what triggers their emotions

0 1 2 3 4

3. The child understands how their emotions affect their behavior

0 1 2 3 4

4. The child can describe their strengths and abilities

0 1 2 3 4

5. The child shows confidence in their abilities

0 1 2 3 4

6. The child can accurately assess their own performance

0 1 2 3 4

Domain 2: Self-Regulation (Questions 7-12)

7. The child can calm themselves when upset

0 1 2 3 4

8. The child manages anger appropriately without hurting others

0 1 2 3 4

9. The child can wait their turn and delay gratification

0 1 2 3 4

10. The child adapts well to changes in routine or plans

0 1 2 3 4

11. The child persists with difficult tasks without giving up easily

0 1 2 3 4

12. The child controls impulsive behaviors

0 1 2 3 4

Domain 3: Motivation (Questions 13-18)

13. The child shows enthusiasm for learning new things

0 1 2 3 4

14. The child sets goals for themselves

0 1 2 3 4

15. The child bounces back from disappointments or failures

0 1 2 3 4

16. The child takes initiative in activities or projects

0 1 2 3 4

17. The child seeks to improve their performance

0 1 2 3 4

18. The child shows optimism about future outcomes

0 1 2 3 4

Domain 4: Empathy (Questions 19-24)

19. The child recognizes emotions in others' facial expressions

0 1 2 3 4

20. The child shows concern when others are upset or hurt

0 1 2 3 4

21. The child tries to comfort others who are distressed

0 1 2 3 4

22. The child understands different perspectives in conflicts

0 1 2 3 4

23. The child responds appropriately to others' emotions

0 1 2 3 4

24. The child shows sensitivity to others' needs and feelings

0 1 2 3 4

Domain 5: Social Skills (Questions 25-30)

25. The child communicates their needs and wants clearly

0 1 2 3 4

26. The child resolves conflicts peacefully with peers

0 1 2 3 4

27. The child cooperates well in group activities

0 1 2 3 4

28. The child makes and maintains friendships

0 1 2 3 4

29. The child shows leadership qualities when appropriate

0 1 2 3 4

30. The child influences others in positive ways

0 1 2 3 4

Assessment Information

Instructions

Domain 1: Self-Awareness (Questions 1-6)

Domain 2: Self-Regulation (Questions 7-12)

Domain 3: Motivation (Questions 13-18)

Domain 4: Empathy (Questions 19-24)

Domain 5: Social Skills (Questions 25-30)

Assessment Results