Screening for Depression in Prisoners Using the Beck Depression Inventory

摘要: As part of the admission process to North Carolina state prison system, 1,494 prisoners completed Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). The mean BDI score for this population was 12.57 (SD=8.51), which corresponds “mild depression” range on instrument. While overall scores were elevated relative general norms test, female inmates, younger prisoners, close custody and those serving their first period incarceration produced even higher scores. Thus, reports generalized feelings depression are common among prisoners. Results suggest that a 20 might serve as an appropriate cutting determine need further assessment mental health intervention in population. Factor analysis inmates' responses yielded four distinct, interpretable factors labeled (a) cognitive symptoms, (b) vegetative (c) emotional (d) punishment. These may different components of...