Factor structure of the Reynolds Adolescent Depression Scale in a sample of school-based adolescents.

Depression is a common health problem in the adolescent population. The Reynolds Adolescent Depression Scale (RADS) is used to measure depression in clinical and community adolescent samples. Although there is available evidence for the reliability and validity of the RADS, there is insufficient documentation of its factor structure. This study examined the factor structure of the RADS in adolescent boys and girls (m-144). Internal consistency reliability ranged from .91 to .94 based on grade level, and was .91 for boys and .93 for girls. Factor analysis resulted in a 5-factor solution. Interpretation of factors were as follows: (a) Factor I--generalized demoralization; (b) Factor II--despondency and worry; (c) Factor III--externalized somatocism; (d) Factor IV--anhedonia; and, (e) Factor V--self-worth.