Appraisal of Diabetes Scale – ADS
A 7-item self-report scale assessing an individual's cognitive appraisal of their diabetes and its impact on their life.
Scale Development & Technical Details
Scale Overview
The Appraisal of Diabetes Scale – ADS was developed by Carey, M. P., Jorgensen, R. S., Weinstock, R. S., Sprafkin, R. P., Lantinga, L. J., Carnrike, C. L. M., Jr., Baker, M. T., & Meisler, A. W. (1991). It is designed to measure Cognitive appraisal of diabetes. The scale is intended for use with Adults with diabetes.
Scale Structure
This instrument consists of 7 items.
Response Format
Respondents rate each item using a custom response format.
Response anchors: 1 = 1 (e.g., Not at all / None / Totally because of me), 2 = 2 (e.g., Slightly / Slight / Mostly because of me), 3 = 3 (e.g., Moderately / Moderate / Partly because of me and other factors), 4 = 4 (e.g., Very / Large / Mostly because of other factors), 5 = 5 (e.g., Extremely / Total / Totally because of other factors).
The scale includes 2 reverse-scored items to reduce acquiescence bias.
Scoring
Items are summed to produce a total score.
Total scores range from 7 to 35. Interpretation guidelines:
- Positive appraisal (Good adjustment): 7 – 15
- Moderate appraisal: 16 – 26
- Negative appraisal (Poor adjustment / High risk for noncompliance): 27 – 35
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.