What is the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales (VABS)?

The Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales (VABS) is a comprehensive assessment tool designed to evaluate adaptive functioning in children and adolescents across multiple domains of daily living skills.

Who developed the VABS and when?

Developed by Sparrow SS, Cicchetti DV, and Balla DA, with the third edition published in 2016.

What type of assessment is the VABS?

It is a parent/caregiver rating scale that assesses adaptive behavior through structured interviews and questionnaires.

What does the VABS assess?

• Communication skills (expressive and receptive)
• Daily living skills (personal care, domestic tasks, community)
• Socialization and interpersonal relationships
• Play and leisure activities
• Coping skills and emotional regulation
• Gross and fine motor coordination
• Academic skills and learning abilities
• Self-control and behavioral regulation
• Adaptability to change and new situations
• Age-appropriate functional independence

How many items and what format?

15 core items, rated on a 5-point scale (Severely impaired to Advanced) across three main domains.

How is the VABS scored?

Standard scores (mean = 100, SD = 15) and age-equivalent scores. Higher scores indicate better adaptive functioning.

Are there versions of the VABS?

Vineland-3 (current edition), Vineland-II, and original Vineland; comprehensive and domain-specific forms available.

Who can use the VABS?

Psychologists, special education professionals, pediatricians, speech-language pathologists, and occupational therapists working with children and adolescents.

What are the strengths of the VABS?

Strong psychometric properties, comprehensive coverage of adaptive domains, excellent reliability and validity, and practical for clinical and educational settings.

What are the limitations of the VABS?

Relies on parent/caregiver report; may be influenced by rater bias; requires training for accurate administration; time-intensive comprehensive assessment.

How is the VABS used?

Diagnostic assessment for developmental disabilities, educational planning (IEPs), intervention planning, progress monitoring, and research on child development.