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. 2015 Nov;20(4):230-241.
doi: 10.1111/camh.12106. Epub 2015 Apr 29.

Measurement Issues: Depression measures in children and adolescents

Meinou Simmons  1 , Paul Wilkinson  2 , Bernadka Dubicka  3   4
Affiliations

Measurement Issues: Depression measures in children and adolescents

Meinou Simmons et al. Child Adolesc Ment Health. 2015 Nov.

Abstract

Background: Since the recognition of youth depression, numerous instruments have been developed, but there is little consensus regarding their use. In recent years, a national programme for outcome measurement has been introduced in the United Kingdom.

Method: A pragmatic literature search was conducted to select instruments commonly used to measure depression either in research or as recommended by UK national bodies.

Results: 15 depression rating scales were identified. Diagnostic instruments and rating scales are described.

Conclusions: Recent large depression trials have produced additional new data, and UK national organisations have made recommendations regarding the implementation of certain instruments.

Keywords: Child and adolescent; depression; instruments; rating scales.

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