Revisiting the Factor Structure of the Centrality of Event Scale

Traumatic experiences that become self-defining impact posttraumatic outcomes, yet exact mechanisms are currently being studied. Recent research has used the Centrality of Event Scale (CES). However, the factor structure of the CES has been in question. We analyzed archival data (N = 318) split into homogenous groups of participants to examine whether the factor structure of the CES differed based on event type (bereavement vs. sexual assault) or by levels of PTSD (meeting clinical cut off score vs. group of lowest scorers). Exploratory factor analyses with subsequent confirmatory analyses revealed a single factor model in the bereavement group, sexual assault group, and the low PTSD group. A three-factor model emerged in the high PTSD group, with the factors' themes matching previous findings. Event centrality appears to be a universal theme when people endure and process a diversity of adverse events. These distinct factors may illuminate pathways in the clinical syndrome.

The relationships between perceived mental illness prevalence, mental illness stigma, and attitudes toward help-seeking

Previous research suggests that, despite the commonality of mental illness in the United States, the majority of U.S. individuals with mental illness do not seek treatment. One important factor that contributes to this lack of treatment utilization is mental illness stigma. Such stigma may result, in part, from many individuals in the U.S. underestimating the prevalence of mental illness. To test whether this is the case, 638 adults from across the U.S. completed measures related to perceived prevalence of mental illness, private stigma, perceived public stigma, and help-seeking. Findings indicated participants significantly underestimated the given-year prevalence rate of mental illness. The perceived given-year prevalence rate was significantly correlated with lower private stigma and more positive attitudes towards help-seeking. Personal stigma significantly predicted attitudes towards help-seeking. Findings also suggested that individuals who have received mental health services have a higher perceived prevalence rate of mental illness, as well as lower levels of personal stigma and more positive attitudes towards help-seeking. These findings support the notion that helping the general public recognize the true prevalence rate of mental illness could reduce personal mental illness stigma and facilitate help-seeking behaviors. However, future experimental studies are needed to test this hypothesis.

Convergent Validity and Preliminary Cut-Off Scores for the Anxiety and Depression Subscales of the DASS-21 in US Adolescents

Although the depression and anxiety subscales (DASS-D and DASS-A) of the 21-item Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scales are commonly used in adolescents, few studies have investigated the convergent validity of/potential cutoff scores for these subscales in U.S. adolescents. To address these gaps, 306 U.S. adolescents completed the DASS-21, Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 scale (GAD7), and Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression Scale (CESD). The DASS-D and CESD were strongly correlated, while the DASS-A and GAD7 were strongly correlated in males and more moderately correlated in females. Using the CESD as reference, DASS-D cutoff scores of four for males and five for females provided the best balance of sensitivity and specificity. When using the GAD7 as reference, DASS-A cutoffs of six for females and five for males appeared best. These findings suggest the DASS-A and DASS-D demonstrate good convergent validity and may be suitable for identifying adolescents who are significantly anxious and/or depressed.

Validity of the College Maladjustment Scale for identification of distressed students

Validity of the College Maladjustment Scale for identification of distressed students was estimated against scores on the Langner Symptom Survey for 298 undergraduates. A cut-off score of 20 rather than one of 15, gave a true-positive rate of 85% and a true-negative rate of 76%.

Validity of the College Maladjustment Scale for identification of distressed students

Validity of the College Maladjustment Scale for identification of distressed students was estimated against scores on the Langner Symptom Survey for 298 undergraduates. A cut-off score of 20 rather than one of 15, gave a true-positive rate of 85% and a true-negative rate of 76%.