Scale Overview
The Hopelessness Scale for Children – Modified Version (HSC) was developed by Alan E. Kazdin, Antoinette Rodgers, Debra Colbus (1986). It is designed to measure Hopelessness. The scale is intended for use with Children (ages 6-13).
Scale Structure
This instrument consists of 6 items.
Response Format
Respondents rate each item using a custom response format.
Response anchors: 1 = Strongly disagree, 2 = Disagree, 3 = Agree, 4 = Strongly agree.
The scale includes 3 reverse-scored items to reduce acquiescence bias.
Scoring
Item scores are averaged to produce a mean score.
Total scores range from 1 to 4. Interpretation guidelines:
- Low Hopelessness: 1 – 2
- Moderate Hopelessness: 2 – 3
- High Hopelessness: 3 – 4
Psychometric Properties
Internal Consistency: The scale has demonstrated good to excellent internal consistency with reported Cronbach’s alpha values of Internally consistent.
Administration
The scale is self-administered and typically takes approximately 3 minutes to complete. It can be administered individually or in group settings. No special training is required for administration.