Validation of the Chinese Maudsley three-item visual analogue scale to measure depressive symptoms in a youth population
2024

Validation of the Chinese Maudsley three-item visual analogue scale for measuring depression in youth

Sample size: 550 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Ding Yi, Strawbridge Rebecca, Young Allan H., Xue Lingfeng, Zhao Fangfang

Primary Institution: School of Nursing and Rehabilitation, Nantong University, Nantong, China

Hypothesis

This study aimed to translate the M3VAS into Chinese and test its reliability and validity.

Conclusion

The psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the M3VAS suggest that this scale can feasibly evaluate depression among young people in China.

Supporting Evidence

  • The content validity of each item ranged from 0.83 to 1.00.
  • Exploratory factor analysis denoted a total of two common factors, with a variance contribution rate of 64.34%.
  • The total score correlated positively with the PHQ-9 total score (r = 0.241, P < 0.01).
  • The Chinese version of the M3VAS had good reliability and validity values.

Takeaway

Researchers created a new tool to help understand depression in young people in China, and it works well.

Methodology

The study involved translating the M3VAS into Chinese and testing its reliability and validity among 550 young people with moderate to severe depression.

Potential Biases

Participants were recruited through online advertising and were compensated, which may introduce bias.

Limitations

The results may not generalize to all adult depression, and the study did not evaluate participants independently for comorbidities.

Participant Demographics

67% female, 33% male; ages 14-35, with 77% aged 18-24.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.01

Statistical Significance

p<0.01

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1192/bjo.2024.778

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