Which type of assessment measures adaptive functioning such as self-care and daily living activities?

• A. IQ test
• B. Adaptive behavior scales
• C. Neuropsychological battery
• D. Achievement test

Answer: (B)

Adaptive functioning refers to how well someone handles everyday tasks needed for independence, like self-care, daily living activities, and social skills. Assessments that focus on these practical skills capture how a person actually functions in daily life, often using caregiver or teacher reports and sometimes direct observation. This makes them ideal for understanding independence and support needs.

IQ tests measure reasoning, problem solving, and general cognitive abilities, but they don’t directly assess everyday functioning. A neuropsychological battery looks at a range of brain functions (attention, memory, executive skills) without centering on daily living tasks. An achievement test evaluates learned academic skills such as reading and math, not how well someone manages daily routines. Therefore, adaptive behavior scales are the best fit for measuring adaptive functioning like self-care and daily living activities.