Understanding the use of behavioral rating scales in studies evaluating the efficacy of antianxiety and antidepressant drugs.

Behavioral rating scales commonly used in efficacy studies of antianxiety and antidepressant drugs are described, and the appropriate use of these scales in clinical studies is discussed from the perspective of pharmacists who must evaluate such studies. Defined first are four attributes by which all rating scales are developed and evaluated: standardization, normalization, validity, and reliability. In psychopharmacology research, rating scales are used to select subjects for study, assess the severity of an illness, measure change in behavior over time, and determine treatment efficacy. Four types of rating scales (patient self-assessment, interview-based, ward-observation, and assessment by significant others) are defined. Some of the most commonly used behavioral rating scales are classified and described; their individual advantages and limitations are evaluated. Knowledge of the characteristics of the various behavioral rating scales is essential to understanding how they can be used most appropriately in drug-efficacy studies to measure changes in behavior and mood.