Differences between NIH Toolbox^® Emotion Measures

Computer Adaptive Tests (CATs) versus Fixed Forms

NIH Toolbox Emotion measures include computer adaptive tests (CATs) and fixed forms (FF).

• CATs
  
  • Tailored selection of items for each respondent
  • Requires administration technology
  • High measurement precision across a wide range of symptom/function severity
• Fixed Forms
  • All respondents answer all questions
  • No special administration technology needed
  • Degree of measurement precision varies

Differences Between v2.0 and v3.0

In 2023, NIH Toolbox v3.0 replaced NIH Toolbox v2.0. In most (but not all) cases, NIH Toolbox v2.0 and v3.0 measures include the same items. However, there are three main differences between v2.0 and v3.0. These are:

1. Different item administration engines. V3.0 includes new features to allow more flexibility in CAT stopping rules and uses streamlined code. Measure scoring is the same.
2. Different CAT stopping rules (see Measure Differences summaries below).
3. V2.0 measures previously administered as fixed forms are now administered as CATs in v3.0.

Descriptions of the differences between NIH Toolbox v2.0 and v3.0 measures within a domain (e.g., Anger) are available in the following Measure Differences summaries:

• Negative Affect (Anger)
  • Includes Anger, Anger/Hostility, and Anger/Physical Aggression measures
• Negative Affect (Fear)
  • Includes Fear/Anxiety measures
• Negative Affect (Sadness/Apathy)
  • Includes Apathy and Sadness/Depression measures
• Psychological Well-Being
  • Includes Life Satisfaction, Meaning and Purpose, and Positive Affect measures
• Sensation (Pain)
  • Includes Pain Intensity and Pain Interference measures
• Social Relationships
  • Includes Emotional Support, Empathic Behaviors, Friendship, Instrumental Support, Loneliness, Perceived Hostility, Peer/Perceived Rejection, Positive Peer Interaction, and Social Withdrawal measures
• Stress and Self-Efficacy (Self-Efficacy)
  • Includes Emotion Control and Self-Efficacy measures
• Stress and Self-Efficacy (Stress)
  • Includes Perceived Stress measures

Last updated on 4/4/2024