Examining the utilisation and validity of the Depression Intensity Scale Circles (DISCs): A scoping review

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• Psychometrics
• Clinical Psychology

Background:

• The Depression Intensity Scale Circles (DISCs) is a visual tool for depression screening in individuals with cognitive or communication impairments.
• Existing research on DISCs' psychometric properties is limited, necessitating a systematic review.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically map existing research on the DISCs.
• To evaluate the reliability, validity, and utilization of DISCs in research and clinical practice.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted across 9 databases from 2004 to July 2024.
• Thirty-six sources mentioning DISCs were included, encompassing published literature, grey literature, and social media.
• Analysis focused on studies formally investigating DISCs' psychometric properties.

Main Results:

• Only three sources formally assessed the psychometric properties of the DISCs.
• Results suggest DISCs may have stronger predictive validity than previously reported.
• Despite limited formal validation, DISCs are recommended in UK guidelines, particularly for stroke patients.

Conclusions:

• The DISCs shows potential for depression screening in cognitively impaired populations, with promising predictive validity.
• Further rigorous research is essential to fully establish the psychometric properties of the DISCs.
• Balancing psychometric rigor with clinical utility is crucial when using DISCs for individuals with cognitive and communication challenges.