Challenging behaviours should not be considered as depressive equivalents in individuals with intellectual disability

Depression is one of the most common forms of psychopathology in people with intellectual disability (ID). The present study evaluated the utility of an expanded assessment of psychiatric symptoms and challenging behaviours, as measured by the Clinical Behavior Checklist for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities (CBCPID).

The CBCPID was administered to 92 people with ID, 35 of whom were diagnosed with a depressive disorder.

Item and factor analysis of the scale indicated that depression was best assessed using the core DSM-IV symptoms of depressive disorder. Challenging behaviours such as self-injury or aggression were not closely associated with depression. Short scales using the core DSM-IV symptoms of depression were highly internally consistent. There was also evidence of the validity of these scales.

This study found no evidence that challenging behaviours were depressive equivalents in this population. The present authors conclude that the assessment of depression in people with ID should focus on the core DSM-IV symptoms of depression.