Description of the Questionnaire

The Self–Reported Delinquency — Problem Behavior Frequency Scale is a self-report tool aimed at measuring the frequency of delinquent behaviors in adolescents. It includes 25 items that cover behaviors such as physical aggression, rule-breaking, substance use, sexual behavior, and property damage. Respondents are asked to indicate how often they have engaged in specific behaviors within a defined period of time, such as the past month or the past year.

Data Analysis and Use

The tool is used to capture the prevalence of delinquent behaviors in adolescent samples, the frequency of their occurrence, and the progression of these behaviors over time. It is applied both in research programs and in prevention and evaluation interventions.

Objective

The main objective is the recording and measurement of delinquent and antisocial behavior in adolescents, in order to identify behavioral patterns, evaluate prevention programs, and support the understanding of psychosocial development.

Scoring

Each item is rated on a frequency scale where 1 corresponds to Never, 2 to 1–2 times, 3 to 3–5 times, 4 to 6–9 times, 5 to 10–19 times, and 6 to 20 or more times. The scores are summed, with higher values indicating a greater frequency of delinquent behavior.

References

Jessor, R., & Jessor, S. L. (1977). Problem behavior and psychological development: A longitudinal study of youth. New York: Academic Press.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Measuring Violence-Related Attitudes, Behaviors, and Influences Among Youths: A Compendium of Assessment Tools.