Brief Description
The SCOFF Questionnaire is a short, five-item screening tool designed to detect the presence of eating disorders, particularly anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. It is primarily used in clinical settings to identify individuals who may need a more comprehensive evaluation for an eating disorder. Each question in the SCOFF Questionnaire is designed to assess the presence of core features associated with eating disorders, such as concerns about body weight, eating disorder-related behaviors, and control over eating behaviors. Each item is marked as "Yes" or "No," making it a quick and straightforward tool for clinicians and patients.
Assessment Administration Type
Self-report
Number of questions
5
Age Range for Administration
12+
Recommended Frequency of Administration
The SCOFF Questionnaire was developed to be given once at intake or when an eating disorder is first suspected.
Summary of Scoring and Interpretations
To score the SCOFF Questionnaire, each "Yes" response is scored as one point, with a total possible score of five points. A cutoff score of two or more indicates a likely eating disorder. The questionnaire is highly effective in identifying those with an eating disorder, as it has demonstrated a sensitivity of 100 percent and a specificity of 87.5 percent. At the same time, there is a 12.5 percent rate of false positives; thus, the measure should not be used as the sole tool in diagnostic decision-making.
Blueprint Adjustments
N/A
Clinical Considerations
Estimated time for completion: 2-3 minutes
The SCOFF Questionnaire is meant to enhance clinical decision-making and serve as an initial step in screening for eating disorders. It should not serve as the sole basis for making a diagnosis.
Citation
Relevant Articles + Further Resources
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