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Professional Technical In the Industry Vocabulary Test

Beck Depression Inventory

A standardized self-report questionnaire measuring severity of depressive symptoms.

Full Definition

The Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II) is a widely used 21-item self-administered assessment tool that measures the severity of depressive symptoms in adults. Each item corresponds to specific symptoms of depression and rates their intensity on a 0-3 scale. The BDI-II is commonly used in psychiatric settings for screening, monitoring treatment progress, and research purposes. In clinical documentation, BDI-II scores provide objective measures of symptom severity and treatment response. Editors should recognize various versions (BDI, BDI-IA, BDI-II) and ensure proper citation of specific versions used.

Usage

Usage note: Specify version (BDI-II is current standard); scores should include interpretation context.

In Context

  • "Beck Depression Inventory score decreased from 28 to 14 following six weeks of treatment." — outcome assessment
  • "Initial BDI-II administration indicated severe depression with a score of 35." — intake evaluation

Also known as

BDI-II BDI Beck inventory

Don't confuse with

Hamilton Depression Rating Scale PHQ-9

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