Psychometric Evaluation of the Brief Adjustment Scale-6 (BASE-6): A New Measure of General Psychological Adjustment

Abstract

The Brief Adjustment Scale-6 (BASE-6) is a six-item self-report measure of general psychological adjustment developed as a shorter alternative to the most commonly used instrument for overall distress and functioning, the Outcome Questionnaire-45 (OQ-45.2). The OQ-45.2 is most frequently used to monitor client status throughout psychotherapy, referred to as routine outcome monitoring. This practice highlights client improvement and the need for therapeutic adjustments when clients are not improving as expected, resulting in faster symptom reduction, reduced likelihood of client dropout, and improved outcomes. I investigated the psychometric properties of the BASE-6, using (a) two different online community samples, each of which comprised a subsample in psychotherapy as well as a subsample not in psychotherapy and (b) a general university sample. In all samples, I found high correlations with the more extensive OQ-45.2, as well as very strong psychometric qualities. Compared with the OQ-45.2, respondents rated the measure as equally useful for measuring adjustment but viewed it as significantly easier to use, and expressed greater willingness to complete it on a weekly basis. Results indicate the BASE-6 holds promise as a brief and acceptable alternative when frequent administration of the OQ-45.2 is not feasible.