A depression scale applicable to verbal samples

A depression scale scored through the content analysis of verbal samples is described. A classification is provided of the type of content analysis used in the development of this scale. The rationale for various mathematical transformations used in deriving the scores is given. The construct of depression is discussed, and measurement problems occurring in its assessment are outlined. The content analysis approach to measurement of psychological and behavioral dimensions is seen as a combination of self-report and independent observer rating scale methods. The place of normative scores with such measurement tools is explained. Reliability of scoring and construct validation data using the depression scale are presented.