Factor Structure and Validity of the K6 Scale for Adults With Suicidal Ideation

Abstract

AbstractObjective: This study examines the factor structure and utility of the K6 psychological distress scale for adults with suicidal ideation. Method: The sample, drawn from the 2011 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, consists of 2,098 adults age 18 years or older who reported suicidal ideation. Confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) were conducted to test the single-factor (psychological distress), 2-factor (depression and anxiety), and second-order 2-factor models. Structural equational modeling (SEM) was used to test whether the K6 scores have concurrent validity with suicidal behaviors. Results: The results from the CFA indicate the single-factor model, the 2-factor model, and the second-order 2-factor model all fit the data well, with all items loading significantly, as expected. However, the results from the SEM analyses suggest that only the single-factor model has concurrent validity for suicide plan and attempt. Chi- square analysis suggests the K6 cutoff point for serious psychological distr...