Depression Adjective Check Lists – Form E (DACL-E)
A self-report instrument designed to measure transient depressive mood states using a list of adjectives.
Scale Development & Technical Details
Scale Overview
The Depression Adjective Check Lists – Form E (DACL-E) was developed by Bernard Lubin (1965). It is designed to measure Depressive Mood State. The scale is intended for use with Adults and adolescents.
Scale Structure
This instrument consists of 34 items organized into 2 factors/subscales: Depressive Affect, Positive Affect.
| Factor / Subscale | Items | N |
|---|---|---|
| Depressive Affect | 1,3,4,5,7,8,9,11,12,14,15,19,20,22,23,24,26,27,29,30,32,33 | 22 |
| Positive Affect | 2,6,10,13,16,17,18,21,25,28,31,34 | 12 |
Response Format
Respondents rate each item using a custom response format.
Response anchors: 0 = Unchecked, 1 = Checked.
The scale includes 12 reverse-scored items to reduce acquiescence bias.
Scoring
Items are summed to produce a total score.
Total scores range from 0 to 34. Interpretation guidelines:
- Normal/Minimal Depression: 0 – 8
- Mild Depression: 9 – 15
- Moderate Depression: 16 – 22
- Severe Depression: 23 – 34
Psychometric Properties
Internal Consistency: The scale has demonstrated good to excellent internal consistency with reported Cronbach’s alpha values of Internal consistency ranges from .82 to .93.
Administration
The scale is self-administered and typically takes approximately 3 minutes to complete. It can be administered individually or in group settings. No special training is required for administration.