The German version of the Anorectic Behavior Observation Scale (ABOS)

Abstract

Objective: To assess the performance of the German version of the Anorectic Behavior Observation Scale (ABOS) as a parent-report screening instrument for eating disorders (ED) in their children. Methods: Parents of 101 ED female patients (80 with Anorexia Nervosa; 21 with Bulimia Nervosa) and of 121 age- and socioeconomic status (SES)-matched female controls completed the ABOS. Results: Confirmatory factor analysis supported the original three-factor structure model of the ABOS. Cronbach’s alpha coefficients indicated good internal consistency for the three factors and the total score in the total sample. The best cut-off point (100% sensitivity and specificity) in the German version was ≥23. Conclusion: The ABOS may be a useful additional instrument for assessing ED.