Table 4 Item parameters for a unidimensional model

(1)

People with depression often speak incoherently

.35^**

.12

(2)

People with depression can feel guilty even though they have done nothing wrong

.42^*

.18

(3)

Reckless and risk-taking behaviour are common signs of depression

.34^**

.12

(4)

Loss of self-confidence and low self-esteem can be signs of depression

.26

.07

(5)

Not stepping on the joints of a footpath can be a sign of depression

.57^**

.32

(6)

People with depression often hear voices that are not there

.81^**

.66

(7)

Sleeping too much or too little can be a sign of depression

.61^**

.37

(8)

Eating too much or losing your appetite can be signs of depression

.62^**

.38

(9)

Depression does not affect memory and concentration

.42^**

.18

(10)

Having several different personalities can be a sign of depression

.81^**

.66

(11)

As a result of depression, people may move more slowly or be completely restless

.26^**

.07

(12)

Psychologists can prescribe antidepressants

.64^**

.41

(13)

Depression can be accompanied by changes in thinking and perception (e.g. brooding)

.44^**

.19

(14)

Most people with depression need to be admitted to hospital

.69^**

.48

(15)

Depression always has several causes

-.05

.00

(16)

Increasing positive activities (e.g. exercise, socializing) should be an integral part of any depression treatment

.25^*

.07

(17)

For depression, counselling is as effective as cognitive behavioural therapy

.46^**

.21

(18)

For mild to moderate depression, cognitive behavioural therapy is the treatment of choice

.28^**

.08

(19)

People with depression have negative thoughts, which can also take the form of suicidal thoughts

.58^**

.34

(20)

People with depression should stop taking antidepressants as soon as they feel better

.64^**

.41

(21)

Antidepressants are addictive

.73^**

.53

(22)

Antidepressants usually work immediately

.65^**

.42