The Children's Depression Inventory (CDI and CDI2) is a psychological assessment that rates the severity of symptoms related to depression or dysthymic disorder in children and adolescents.[1] The CDI is a 27-item scale that is self-rated and symptom-oriented.[1] The assessment is now in its second edition.[2][3] The 27 items on the assessment are grouped into five major factor areas.[1] Clients rate themselves based on how they feel and think, with each statement being identified with a rating from 0 to 2.[1] The CDI was developed by American clinical psychologist Maria Kovacs, PhD, and was published in 1979.[1] It was developed by using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) of 1967 for adults as a model. The CDI is a widely used and accepted assessment for the severity of depressive symptoms in children and youth, with high reliability.[1] It also has a well-established validity using a variety of different techniques, and good psychometric properties. The CDI is a "Level B test," which means that the test is somewhat complex to administer and score, with the administrator requiring training.[1]
^ abcdefgKovacs, M. (1992). Children's Depression Inventory. North Tonawanda, NY: Multi-Health Systems, Inc.
