Development and validation of the multidimensional Fear of Depression Recurrence Questionnaire (FoDRQ)

Despite high recurrence rates in major depressive disorder (MDD), little is known about the factors influencing recurrence. Understanding the changes that occur between major depressive episodes (MDEs) is imperative. It is possible that being fearful of experiencing another MDE may lead to cognitive and behavioural changes that increase MDD recurrence risk. There are no available tools designed to capture these fears. This study developed and validated a self-report questionnaire measuring fears of depression recurrence (FoDR). 552 participants remitted from MDD (75% female; Age 18-73, <i>M</i>_<i>age</i> = 29.5, <i>SD</i> = 9.2) participated. Separate samples were used for the exploratory factor analysis (<i>n</i> = 200) and confirmatory factor analysis (<i>n</i> = 352). Test-retest reliability was assessed (<i>n</i> = 244). The results supported the retention of a 24-item scale, the <i>Fear of Depression Recurrence Questionnaire (FoDRQ)</i>, loading onto three factors (severity, content, triggers). The FoDRQ demonstrated excellent internal consistency and composite reliability, and acceptable test-retest reliability. The scale showed strong convergent and divergent validity across other validated measures. FoDRQ scores significantly predicted measures of experiential avoidance and mental health self-management. The FoDRQ has excellent psychometric properties and can be used to understand how FoDR may influence MDD outcomes, recurrence risk, and illness-related coping.