Developing and validating a short version of the multidimensional depression scale in asian adolescents sample using rasch analysis

Depression is a prevalent mental disorder among Asian adolescents. The 52-item Multidimensional Depression Assessment Scale (MDAS), with its four sub-scales (Emotional, Cognitive, Somatic, Interpersonal), has been effective in measuring depressive symptoms across various dimensions. However, there is increasing interest in developing a shorter version for easier administration. This study aimed to (1) shorten the MDAS using Rasch analysis and (2) evaluate the psychometric properties of the shortened scale for Asian adolescents. A sample of 1996 Asian adolescents aged 12-18 from secondary schools in the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and the Netherlands participated via the Qualtrics online platform. Rasch analysis was conducted using Winsteps, with a stepwise removal of one item per sub-scale each round. Eventually, the original 5-point MDAS was transformed into a 4-point scale during monotonicity diagnostics and was ultimately reduced to 24 items. Both the general scale and sub-scales displayed acceptable functionality readings and high internal consistency (> 0.89) post-shortening. The Pearson's correlation test also demonstrated the strong correlations of MDAS24-4pt with the original scale (> 0.90) and Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) (> 0.70). To conclude, the MDAS24-4pt retained robust psychometric properties, while making it a more efficient tool for detecting depression in Asian adolescents compared to the original scale.