Comparing Online and Paper Questionnaires for Depression
Author Information
Author(s): Pim Cuijpers, Kate Kay-Lambkin, Frances Holländare, Gerhard Andersson, Ingemar Engström
Primary Institution: Örebro University
Hypothesis
Do the psychometric properties of online versions of depression questionnaires differ from their paper counterparts?
Conclusion
The online versions of the MADRS-S and BDI-II maintain their psychometric properties and can be used effectively in clinical settings.
Supporting Evidence
- The internal consistency of both questionnaires was similar across administration formats.
- High correlations were found between paper and Internet total scores for both questionnaires.
- No significant differences were found in total scores between the two formats.
Takeaway
This study shows that filling out depression questionnaires online is just as good as doing it on paper, which can make it easier for doctors to help patients.
Methodology
Patients completed the BDI-II and MADRS-S questionnaires both on paper and online, with the order of administration randomized.
Potential Biases
Participants may have been more positive towards using the Internet, which could affect generalizability.
Limitations
The study sample may not represent all patients, as participants were interested in an Internet-based treatment trial, and the full range of depression scores was not utilized.
Participant Demographics
The sample consisted of 65.5% women and 34.5% men, with a mean age of 41.1 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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