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Diagnostic Inventory for Depression
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About Diagnostic Inventory for Depression
Scale Name
Diagnostic Inventory for Depression
Author Details
Mark Zimmerman, Thomas Sheeran, and Diane Young
Translation Availability
English
Background/Description
The Diagnostic Inventory for Depression (DID), developed by Mark Zimmerman, Thomas Sheeran, and Diane Young in 2004, is a self-report psychological tool designed to diagnose and assess the severity of major depressive disorder (MDD) according to DSM-IV criteria. Published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology, the DID was created to bridge the gap between lengthy clinical interviews and brief screening tools, offering a reliable, patient-completed measure that aligns with diagnostic standards. It is particularly useful in clinical and research settings where efficient yet accurate identification of MDD is needed.
The DID consists of 38 items, divided into three sections: 19 items assess the presence of nine DSM-IV MDD symptoms (e.g., depressed mood, anhedonia), 17 items measure symptom severity on a 5-point scale (0 = “not at all” to 4 = “nearly every day”), and 2 items evaluate psychosocial impairment. Scores range from 0 to 68 for severity, with a diagnostic algorithm identifying MDD based on symptom endorsement and duration. Taking about 10-15 minutes to complete, the DID provides a comprehensive profile of depressive symptoms, making it an accessible tool for psychologists, psychiatrists, and primary care providers. Its translations into several languages enhance its applicability across diverse populations.
Administration, Scoring and Interpretation
- Obtain the copy: Access the DID from its original publication in Zimmerman et al. (2004) via Journal of Clinical Psychology or authorized clinical resources, ensuring ethical use.
- Explain the purpose: Inform participants that the inventory assesses depressive symptoms to diagnose MDD and evaluate severity, aiding in treatment planning or research.
- Provide instructions: Instruct participants to answer all 38 items based on their experiences over the past two weeks, using the provided scales, and encourage honest responses.
- Approximate time: Allow approximately 10-15 minutes for completion, depending on the participant’s reading speed and reflection time.
- Administer the scale: Distribute the DID in a quiet, private setting, via paper or digital format, ensuring confidentiality to promote accurate self-reporting.
Reliability and Validity
The Diagnostic Inventory for Depression demonstrates strong psychometric properties, as established in Zimmerman et al. (2004). Internal consistency is high, with Cronbach’s alpha coefficients ranging from 0.87 to 0.92 for the severity subscale, indicating reliable measurement of depressive symptoms. Test-retest reliability over a one-week period yields coefficients around 0.85, reflecting stability in stable populations.
Validity is robustly supported. Concurrent validity is evidenced by strong correlations (r = 0.75-0.85) with the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale and Beck Depression Inventory, while its diagnostic algorithm shows high agreement (kappa = 0.82) with structured interviews like the SCID for DSM-IV MDD. Content validity aligns with DSM-IV criteria, and discriminant validity distinguishes DID scores from anxiety measures, though some overlap exists due to comorbidity. Its sensitivity to treatment changes enhances its utility, making it a reliable and valid tool for depression assessment.
Available Versions
38-Items
Reference
Zimmerman, M., Sheeran, T., & Young, D. (2004). The Diagnostic Inventory for Depression: a self‐report scale to diagnose DSM‐IV major depressive disorder. Journal of clinical psychology, 60(1), 87-110.
Important Link
Scale File:
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the DID measure?
It diagnoses DSM-IV major depressive disorder and assesses symptom severity.
How many items are in the DID?
It includes 38 items across three sections.
Who developed the DID?
It was developed by Mark Zimmerman, Thomas Sheeran, and Diane Young in 2004.
How long does it take to complete the DID?
It takes about 10-15 minutes.
Is the DID clinician-administered?
No, it’s a self-report scale completed by the patient.
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