The Symptom Check-List-90-R (SCL-90-R): a German validation study

Area of Science:

• Psychological assessment
• Psychometrics
• Clinical psychology

Background:

• The Symptom Check-List-90-R (SCL-90-R) is a widely utilized psychological symptom inventory.
• Validation of the German version is crucial for its application in German-speaking populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the psychometric properties of the German SCL-90-R in clinical and community samples.
• To assess the internal consistency, hierarchical structure, concurrent validity, and diagnostic accuracy of the SCL-90-R.

Main Methods:

• Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach's alpha coefficients.
• Mokken scale analysis and exploratory/confirmatory factor analyses were employed.
• Concurrent validity was examined against the Inventory of Interpersonal Problems (IIP-C) and General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12).
• Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses were used to evaluate diagnostic differentiation.

Main Results:

• High internal consistency was found for the global scale and subscales.
• Mokken analysis supported a hierarchical structure for most subscales.
• Concurrent validity with IIP-C and GHQ-12 was high.
• ROC analyses indicated the SCL-90-R effectively differentiates between individuals with and without psychological disorders.
• Factor analyses did not support the original nine-factor model, suggesting potential issues with subscale multidimensionality.

Conclusions:

• The German SCL-90-R is a reliable and valid instrument for measuring psychological status.
• It is useful for outcome studies and screening for mental disorders.
• Concerns regarding the multidimensionality of subscales warrant consideration.