Dimensionality of the Children’s Depression Inventory: Meta-analysis of Pattern Matrices

This meta-analysis of 24 studies, comprising 35 independent samples with 18,099 participants, examined the factor structure of the Children’s Depression Inventory (CDI). The 5-factor solution involving Somatic Concerns, Externalizing, Negative Self-Concept, Lack of Personal and Social Interest, and Dysphoric Mood was supported for all samples. The 5-factor solution was appropriate for child, adolescent, general, at-risk/clinical, and English-speaking samples, whereas the 4-factor solution was the best for samples using non-English versions of the CDI. As the factor structure varied among study subgroups, the strength of relations between scale items and their underlying depressive symptoms varied. Hence, comparisons of mean CDI scores can be misleading.