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Factor structure of the Beck Depression Inventory in a university sample
Herbert W Helm1, Mark D Boward
1Department of Behavioral Science, Andrews University, Berrien Springs, MI 49104, USA.
Psychological Reports
|April 4, 2003
Summary
Factor analysis of the Beck Depression Inventory revealed two distinct dimensions: Cognitive-Affective and Physiological. This supports the inventory's multidimensionality in university students.
Area of Science:
- Psychological assessment
- Mental health research
- Psychometrics
Background:
- The Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) is a widely used self-report measure for assessing depression.
- Its underlying factor structure has been debated, with questions regarding its potential multidimensionality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the factor structure of the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) in a university sample.
- To investigate the potential multidimensionality of the BDI using factor analysis.
Main Methods:
- Principal components analysis was employed.
- Oblimin and varimax rotations were utilized to achieve factor solutions.
Main Results:
- A two-factor solution emerged, labeled Cognitive-Affective and Physiological.
- These two factors explained approximately 39% of the common variance.
- The findings align with previous research suggesting the BDI's multidimensional nature.
Conclusions:
- The Beck Depression Inventory demonstrates multidimensionality, comprising Cognitive-Affective and Physiological constructs.
- The reliability (internal consistency) of these constructs is supported in minimally depressed university samples.
- This research contributes to understanding the psychometric properties of the BDI.
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