Validity of the mania subscale of the Diagnostic Assessment for the Severely Handicapped-II (DASH-II).

Christian et al. (1997) tested the Mania subscale of the DASH-II.

They gave the scale to adults with severe or profound intellectual disability living in residential centers.

The team checked if the items hung together and if scores could tell manic from non-manic adults.

The subscale items fit well together, showing good internal consistency.

Scores correctly flagged adults who had mania versus those who did not.

The authors conclude the tool is ready for routine screening in this population.

Anonymous (2024) extends this idea. They swapped paper for a web survey and added branching logic so caregivers can now screen for six conditions, not just mania, during a psychiatric crisis.

Glenn et al. (2013) used a similar case-series design to test the SDQ in adults with Down syndrome. Like L et al., they found decent internal structure but warned the tool should not stand alone.

Sasson et al. (2022) ran a near-copy study for fire-setting thoughts. Their scale also showed solid reliability and discrimination, confirming the DASH-II approach works for other risky behaviors.

You now have a one-page caregiver scale that spots mania in adults who cannot self-report. Pair it with the newer web survey from Anonymous (2024) when you need a wider psychiatric screen. If you work in a group home or day program, add the DASH-II Mania subscale to your annual intake packet. It takes five minutes and gives you a clear red flag to share with the prescribing doctor.