What type of assessment relies on information from others rather than direct observation?

The type of assessment that relies on information from others rather than direct observation is referred to as indirect assessment. This approach involves gathering information through interviews, surveys, questionnaires, or rating scales completed by parents, teachers, or other caregivers. By relying on the perspectives and experiences of these individuals, indirect assessments can provide insights into a person's behavior, routines, and challenges without the need for real-time observation.

In contrast, direct assessments involve observing and recording behavior as it occurs in real-time, providing immediate data on the individual's actions. Functional assessments specifically aim to understand the purpose behind certain behaviors, often combining direct and indirect methods for a comprehensive view. Lastly, behavioral assessments can encompass both direct and indirect methods, making it a broader category that includes various techniques for evaluating behavior. Indirect assessments serve as a vital tool, especially when immediate observation is not possible, allowing practitioners to gather valuable contextual information to guide interventions.