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Establishing a coherent and replicable measurement model of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale

Martin, Colin R.; Redshaw, Maggie

Authors

Colin R. Martin

Maggie Redshaw



Abstract

© 2018 The Authors The 10-item Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) is an established screening tool for postnatal depression. Inconsistent findings in factor structure and replication difficulties have limited the scope of development of the measure as a multi-dimensional tool. The current investigation sought to robustly determine the underlying factor structure of the EPDS and the replicability and stability of the most plausible model identified. A between-subjects design was used. EPDS data were collected postpartum from two independent cohorts using identical data capture methods. Datasets were examined with confirm atory factor analysis, model invariance testing and systematic evaluation of relational and internal aspects of the measure. Participants were two samples of postpartum women in England assessed at three months (n = 245) and six months (n = 217). The findings showed a three-factor seven-item model of the EPDS offered an excellent fit to the data, and was observed to be replicable in both datasets and invariant as a function of time point of assessment. Some EPDS sub-scale scores were significantly higher at six months. The EPDS is multi-dimensional and a robust measurement model comprises three factors that are replicable. The potential utility of the sub-scale components identified requires further research to identify a role in contemporary screening practice.

Citation

Martin, C. R., & Redshaw, M. (2018). Establishing a coherent and replicable measurement model of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Psychiatry research, 264, 182-191. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychres.2018.03.062

Journal Article Type Article
Acceptance Date Mar 22, 2018
Online Publication Date Mar 23, 2018
Publication Date Jun 1, 2018
Deposit Date Jun 6, 2018
Publicly Available Date Mar 28, 2024
Journal Psychiatry Research
Print ISSN 0165-1781
Electronic ISSN 1872-7123
Publisher Elsevier
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 264
Pages 182-191
DOI https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychres.2018.03.062
Keywords Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale; EPDS; Factor structure; Validity; Psychometrics
Public URL https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/866576

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