DETECTING THE CONSTRUCT VALIDATION OF SOME DEPRESSION SCALES IN THE PALESTINIAN CONTEXT
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Date
2025-07-24
Authors
Massarwa, Remaa
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Publisher
An-Najah National University
Abstract
This study aimes to evaluate the construct validity of three globally recognized depression assessment the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS), and the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS), and examine their relevance within the unique sociocultural and psychological context of Palestine, where mental health struggles are intensified by ongoing adversity and war. To achieve this, the study adopted a quantitative research approach, utilizing both descriptive statistics and factor analysis. Specifically, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were employed to thoroughly assess the structure of each instrument.
The research sample included 860 participants aged 15-60, drawn from the West Bank, Jerusalem, and the 1948-occupied territories. EFA was carried out on subgroup of 280 participant, while CFA was performed on a larger group of 580 participant. Data were collected through an online questionnaire, with participants selected using a convenience sampling technique. The results revealed that the 17-item version of Beck Depression Inventory exhibited the strongest psychometric prosperities, including high validity and reliability, making it particularly effective tool for depression screening with the Palestinian context. In contrast, the 20 item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS-20) failed to meet acceptable model fit criteria, rendering it ineffective without substantial modification. The MADRS-10 scale, after minor modifications, achieved acceptable validity and reliability, suggesting its applicability in this context. Additionally, the PDS-22 scale created in this research showed considerable validity and consistency. Considering previous results, current recommend the following: 1. Embracing the BDI-17 as the most valid measure for evaluating depression in mental health facilities within Palestine. 2. Continuing to enhance the PDS-22 should be further improved for wider use, including in clinical setting and research endeavours.