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Reliability and validity of the Basic Depression Questionnaire
María Guillot-Valdés1, Alejandro Guillén-Riquelme2, Gualberto Buela-Casal2
1Universidad de La Laguna, Spain.
Summary
The Basic Depression Questionnaire demonstrates strong reliability and a clear structure, proving effective for diagnosing depression in both men and women. Its use aids in differentiating depressive and anxiety disorders.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry and Psychology
- Clinical Assessment
- Psychometrics
Background:
- Depressive disorders are globally prevalent and frequently comorbid with anxiety disorders, complicating differential diagnosis.
- The Basic Depression Questionnaire (CBD) was developed to specifically identify depression symptoms, addressing diagnostic challenges.
- Accurate assessment tools are crucial for effective mental health treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the reliability and factorial structure of the Basic Depression Questionnaire (CBD).
- To assess the differential item functioning of the CBD across different demographic groups.
- To validate the CBD as a tool for diagnosing depressive disorders.
Main Methods:
- Confirmatory factor analysis was employed to determine the factorial structure.
- Reliability was assessed using ordinal alpha.
- Differential item functioning (DIF) was analyzed to ensure fairness across subgroups.
Main Results:
- The CBD exhibited a robust monofactorial structure with a good fit in confirmatory factor analysis.
- Reliability was high, with an ordinal alpha of .95.
- No differential item functioning was detected, and strict invariance by sex was confirmed.
Conclusions:
- The Basic Depression Questionnaire possesses adequate psychometric properties for clinical use.
- Its reliability and invariance by sex support its utility in diagnosing depression in diverse populations.
- The CBD can assist clinicians in differentiating between depressive and anxiety disorders.
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