Victimization—Problem Behavior Frequency Scale (VPBFS)
Measures the frequency of relational and overt peer victimization experienced by adolescents.
Scale Development & Technical Details
Scale Overview
The Victimization—Problem Behavior Frequency Scale (VPBFS) was developed by Crick, N. R., & Bigbee, M. A. (1998). It is designed to measure Peer Victimization. The scale is intended for use with Adolescents and youth.
Scale Structure
This instrument consists of 12 items organized into 2 factors/subscales: Relational Victimization, Overt Victimization.
| Factor / Subscale | Items | N |
|---|---|---|
| Relational Victimization | 1,2,3,4,5,6 | 6 |
| Overt Victimization | 7,8,9,10,11,12 | 6 |
Response Format
Respondents rate each item using a custom response format.
Response anchors: 1 = Never, 2 = 1-2 times, 3 = 3-5 times, 4 = 6-9 times, 5 = 10-19 times, 6 = 20 or more times.
Scoring
Items are scored by subscale, with each subscale sum representing a distinct dimension.
Total scores range from 6 to 36. Interpretation guidelines:
- No Victimization: 6 – 6
- Low Victimization: 7 – 12
- Moderate Victimization: 13 – 24
- High Victimization: 25 – 36
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.