Scale Overview
The Hopelessness Scale for Children – HSC was developed by Kazdin, A.E., French, N.H., Unis, A.S., Esveldt-Dawson, K., & Sherick, R.B. (1983). It is designed to measure Hopelessness. The scale is intended for use with Children aged 8 to 13.
Scale Structure
This instrument consists of 17 items.
Response Format
Respondents rate each item using a dichotomous Yes/No format.
The scale includes 8 reverse-scored items to reduce acquiescence bias.
Scoring
Items are summed to produce a total score.
Total scores range from 0 to 17. Interpretation guidelines:
- Low Hopelessness: 0 – 8
- High Hopelessness: 9 – 17
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.