This guide is a short introduction to resources pertaining to assessment instruments in social work available through the University of Lethbridge and University of Calgary libraries. It is intended for use by social work students, though content may be relevant to researchers in a variety of fields.

Assessment and clinical evaluation is essential to social work practice. It is needed to develop an accurate understanding of clients and their needs, to identify problems, and to serve as a basis for evaluating the effectiveness of interventions. Assessment consists of data collection, followed by an appraisal of that data as a basis for developing a plan of action.
In order to assist with assessment of various social situations, standardized assessment tools, or instruments, have been developed. These instruments, which often exist in the form of tests, scales, or questionnaires, are widely used in many disciplines in the social sciences.
The U of L and U of C libraries have a number of print and online resources that deal almost exclusively with assessment tools. While a few of the resources provide the actual instrument, most offer a description of the scale along with reviews and references to its usage.
Scroll through this page for guidance on finding resources pertaining to assessment instruments in social work. For information on finding social work resources more generally, visit our Social Work: General Resources guide.