Convergent Validity and Preliminary Cut-Off Scores for the Anxiety and Depression Subscales of the DASS-21 in US Adolescents

Abstract

Although the depression and anxiety subscales (DASS-D and DASS-A) of the 21-item Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scales are commonly used in adolescents, few studies have investigated the convergent validity of/potential cutoff scores for these subscales in U.S. adolescents. To address these gaps, 306 U.S. adolescents completed the DASS-21, Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 scale (GAD7), and Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression Scale (CESD). The DASS-D and CESD were strongly correlated, while the DASS-A and GAD7 were strongly correlated in males and more moderately correlated in females. Using the CESD as reference, DASS-D cutoff scores of four for males and five for females provided the best balance of sensitivity and specificity. When using the GAD7 as reference, DASS-A cutoffs of six for females and five for males appeared best. These findings suggest the DASS-A and DASS-D demonstrate good convergent validity and may be suitable for identifying adolescents who are significantly anxious and/or depressed.