The SDM Observational Rating System (Spagnolo et al., 2002) is tailored to measure constructs from the social development model (Catalano & Hawkins, 1996). In past studies, SDM constructs have been measured using survey methodology. Catalano and Hawkins (1996) noted the potential benefit of measuring SDM constructs using direct observations of interactions with important caregivers, and hypothesized that fine-grained analysis of family processes would further clarify how SDM processes impact children, parent-child interactions, and youth outcomes.
