Children’s Depression Inventory (CDI)

The Children’s Depression Inventory (CDI) is a brief self-report test that aids in assessing cognitive, affective, and behavioral signs of depression.  Schools, child guidance clinics, pediatric practices, and child psychiatric settings are common users of this instrument.

The Children’s Depression Inventory is used by clinicians and counselors to help:

  • Assess self-reported key symptoms of depression, such as a child’s feelings of worthlessness and loss of interest in activities;
  • Support diagnosis and treatment planning;
  • Conduct clinical research.

Participants are required to answer 27-items using the paper-and-pencil format and should be between the ages of 7 and 17.  Approximately 5-10 minutes is necessary for completion.

Author

Maria Kovacs, 1992

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Pearson Assessments

Administration, Analysis and Reporting

Intellectus Consulting can assist the student or professional researcher in administering the survey instrument, collecting the data, conducting the analyses and explaining the results.
For additional information on these services, click here.

Dissertations Using the Children’s Depression Inventory

Below is a list of published dissertations that use the CDI.  The full versions of these dissertations can be found on ProQuest.

Hofheinz, A. Z. (2003). Adolescents with epilepsy: The relationship between perceptions of parenting, self-concept, and self-assessment scores of depression. Grand Valley State University).

Rick, S. S. (1999). Coping behaviors of sexually abused boys as related to levels of depression and hopelessness. Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center School of Nursing).

Northman, L. M. (2003). Predicting adherence with pediatric HIV/AIDS regimens: Understanding the role of the child. George Mason University).