VALIDATION OF GEORGIAN VERSIONS OF BRIEF DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY QUESTIONNAIRES

Abstract

Background. This article presents the data validating Georgian versions of brief depression (CESD  Boston Form) and anxiety (GAD7) measures. These two scales have been widely used in English with  satisfactory validity and reliability and translated and used in many other languages, however, validation  reports of GAD7 are relatively rare and the present study is the first to validate the CESD Boston 10-item  Form in a language other than English. Methods. Data were collected from a sample of 889 Georgian young adults, who, among others, filled  out CESD Boston Form, GAD7, the Satisfaction with Life Scale and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. Results. Confirmatory factor analysis of data indicated that one-factor solution provides a good fit for  both scales. A multi-group CFA supported at least partial configural, metric and scalar invariance across  gender. Both scales provide scores with high internal consistency. Discriminant validity for the CESD  Boston Form and the GAD7 was provided using their correlations with life satisfaction and self-esteem  measures that had been previously validated with Georgian samples. Conclusions. The present study has provided Georgian versions of two brief measures of internalizing  symptoms. These scales will help to satisfy the clinical assessment needs among Georgian mental health  professionals and will serve as a model for other societies with similar needs.