Depression Anxiety Stress Scales – Short Form (DASS-21)

Scale Overview

The Depression Anxiety Stress Scales – Short Form (DASS-21) was developed by Lovibond, S.H. & Lovibond, P.F. (1995). It is designed to measure Depression, Anxiety, Stress. The scale is intended for use with Adults and adolescents aged 12 and older.

Scale Structure

This instrument consists of 21 items organized into 3 factors/subscales: Depression, Anxiety, Stress.

Response Format

Respondents rate each item using a custom response format.

Response anchors: 0 = Did not apply to me at all, 1 = Applied to me to some degree, or some of the time, 2 = Applied to me to a considerable degree, or a good part of time, 3 = Applied to me very much, or most of the time.

Scoring

Items are scored by subscale, with each subscale sum representing a distinct dimension.

Total scores range from 0 to 42. Interpretation guidelines:

• Normal (Depression subscale, multiplied by 2): 0 – 9
• Mild (Depression subscale, multiplied by 2): 10 – 13
• Moderate (Depression subscale, multiplied by 2): 14 – 20
• Severe (Depression subscale, multiplied by 2): 21 – 27
• Extremely Severe (Depression subscale, multiplied by 2): 28 – 42

Psychometric Properties

Internal Consistency: The scale has demonstrated good to excellent internal consistency with reported Cronbach’s alpha values of Acceptable to excellent internal consistency.

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.