Preliminary normative data for the evaluation of risks scale-bubble sheet version (EVAR-B) for large-scale surveys of returning combat veterans

Objective: The Evaluation of Risks (EVAR) scale has been used to assess risk-taking propensity in military samples. This report provides preliminary reliability, validity, and normative data on a modifi ed version of the instrument designed to facilitate data entry with optical scanners, the Evaluation of Risks-Bubble Sheet version (EVAR-B). Methods: 2,015 U.S. Army soldiers completed the EVAR-B and a survey assessing risk-related behaviors 3 months after returning home from combat deployment in Iraq. Results: EVAR-B demonstrated acceptable internal consistency and reliability and correlated signifi cantly with independent measures of self-reported risk-taking behavior, including alcohol use and aggressive behavior, in the weeks preceding the survey. Tentative cut-offs signifi cantly differentiated heavy drinkers, dangerous drivers, and soldiers reporting recent aggressive outbursts. Normative data are provided for comparison with future studies. Conclusions: The EVAR-B is a reliable and valid measure of risk-taking propensity, which provides enhanced fl exibility for administration and scoring in large surveys and fi eld environments.