Confusion, Hubbub, and Order Scale – CHAOS
Measures the level of environmental confusion, noise, and lack of routine in the home.
Scale Development & Technical Details
Scale Overview
The Confusion, Hubbub, and Order Scale – CHAOS was developed by Matheny, A.P., Wachs, T. D., Ludwig, J.L., & Phillips, K. (1995). It is designed to measure Household Chaos. The scale is intended for use with Parents and families.
Scale Structure
This instrument consists of 15 items.
Response Format
Respondents rate each item using a custom response format.
Response anchors: 1 = Very much like your own home, 2 = Somewhat like your own home, 3 = A little bit like your own home, 4 = Not at all like your own home.
The scale includes 8 reverse-scored items to reduce acquiescence bias.
Scoring
Items are summed to produce a total score.
Total scores range from 15 to 60. Interpretation guidelines:
- Low Chaos: 15 – 30
- Moderate Chaos: 31 – 45
- High Chaos: 46 – 60
Administration
The scale is self-administered and typically takes approximately 5 minutes to complete. It can be administered individually or in group settings. No special training is required for administration.