Kutcher Adolescent Depression Scale – 11 Item (KADS-11)
A self-report scale designed to screen for and monitor the severity of depression in adolescents.
Scale Development & Technical Details
Scale Overview
The Kutcher Adolescent Depression Scale – 11 Item (KADS-11) was developed by Stan Kutcher (2003). It is designed to measure Adolescent Depression. The scale is intended for use with Adolescents.
Scale Structure
This instrument consists of 11 items.
Response Format
Respondents rate each item using a custom response format.
Response anchors: 0 = Hardly ever, 1 = Much of the time, 2 = Most of the time, 3 = All the time.
Scoring
Items are summed to produce a total score.
Total scores range from 0 to 33. Interpretation guidelines:
- Not depressed: 0 – 8
- Possible depression (further clinical assessment recommended): 9 – 33
Psychometric Properties
Internal Consistency: The scale has demonstrated good to excellent internal consistency with reported Cronbach’s alpha values of High internal consistency and sensitivity to change over time..
Administration
The scale is self-administered and typically takes approximately 5 minutes to complete. It can be administered individually or in group settings. No special training is required for administration.