Introduction:
This assessment implements the SCOFF questionnaire, a clinically validated five-item screen that flags potential eating-disorder symptoms. Each yes-or-no response captures common behavioural and cognitive signs—including self-induced vomiting, weight change, and preoccupation with food—so you can quickly estimate current risk. Originally designed for busy primary-care clinics, it prioritises speed and sensitivity.
The tool delivers an immediate numeric score from 0 to 5 and colour-coded severity label, rendered on an interactive gauge. A lightweight dynamic engine updates progress and URL-shares results without leaving the browser, safeguarding privacy while supporting consultation. Most users finish in under sixty seconds on any modern device, with fully confidential processing.
Use this screen when you want a quick first check on recent eating-pattern worries before deciding to consult a professional; it never replaces an in-person evaluation or tailored clinical judgment, and results are informational only and do not constitute medical advice or diagnosis—seek qualified care if concerns persist immediately and promptly.
Technical Details:
SCOFF scoring counts the number of affirmative responses; two or more suggest clinically significant eating-disorder risk. This implementation encodes answers in the URL, renders a gauge with gradient risk bands, and performs every computation locally in your browser.
Each answer is mapped to a binary value—1 for Yes, 0 for No—then summed. The unweighted total produces a rapid risk estimate without complex modelling, ensuring transparency and ease of verification.
- Yes answers highlight behavioural and cognitive warning signs.
- Total score range: 0 – 5.
- Positive screen threshold: ≥ 2.
- Severity tag updates gauge colour instantly.
Score | Interpretation |
---|---|
0 – 1 | Negative screen |
2 – 5 | Positive screen |
All calculations run locally, so no personal data leaves the browser.
Calculations & Scoring:
The following outlines exactly how your total is computed and interpreted.
Binary mapping simplifies later aggregation.
The sum gives the raw score S.
A true result triggers a Positive interpretation.
Colour coding aids rapid visual interpretation.
Final Result
Example responses yield a total score of 3, indicating a Positive screen that warrants further evaluation.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Follow these steps to complete the screen.
- Click the Start Assessment button.
- Read the question and choose Yes or No.
- The next unanswered question appears automatically.
- Watch the progress bar for completion status.
- After the fifth answer, review the Your SCOFF Result panel and gauge.
- Click any item in the side list to revise a response if necessary.
FAQ:
Common questions about the screen and its interpretation.
Is my data stored?
No. All answers remain inside your browser and never reach any server; refreshing the page clears them unless you share the encoded URL.
What does a Positive screen mean?
A Positive result suggests you may be experiencing eating-disorder symptoms and should seek a comprehensive assessment by a qualified professional.
Can I share my result?
Yes. Copy the page URL after completing the screen; it contains an encoded, anonymous version of your answers.
How accurate is the SCOFF questionnaire?
Clinical studies report high sensitivity for detecting eating-disorder risk in diverse populations, but it is not a diagnostic tool.
Who should use this tool?
Anyone concerned about recent eating-pattern changes or supporting someone else can use the screen as a preliminary check.
Troubleshooting:
Resolve common issues quickly.
- Button unresponsive – ensure JavaScript is enabled in your browser.
- Gauge not visible – resize the window or disable aggressive content blockers.
- URL not updating – check that private-browsing mode allows address-bar changes.
- Progress bar stuck – verify you answered every question; blanks stop advancement.
- Colours misdisplayed – turn off high-contrast extensions that override site styling.
Advanced Tips:
Get more from the screen.
- Print the results section to bring to a consultation.
- Bookmark the completed URL to re-open your answers later.
- Use incognito mode for added privacy; the result disappears on close.
- Translate the page with built-in browser tools; question wording remains clear.
- Combine with journal notes for richer discussion during professional follow-up.
Glossary:
Key terms used in the assessment.
- SCOFF
- A five-question eating-disorder screening questionnaire.
- Affirmative response
- A “Yes” answer scored as 1.
- Positive screen
- Score of two or more, indicating possible risk.
- Gauge
- Interactive dial that visualises the total score.
- Encoded URL
- Web address containing your answers as anonymous symbols.