Characteristics of depression as assessed by the Diagnostic Assessment forthe Severely Handicapped-II (DASH-II)

Fifty-seven individuals with severe and profound mental retardation (18 wit h a DSM-IV diagnosis of depression, 19 with a Diagnostic Statistical Manual , 4th edition diagnosis of autism, and 20 who meet tao criteria for air emo tional disorder) were studied. The validity of the Diagnostic Assessment fo r the Severely Handicapped II depression subscale was evaluated to determin e its value in categorizing individuals in these two groups. Suggestions we re made for diagnosing depression in persons with severe and profound menta l retardation In a second study the above individuals were compared on symp tomology to assess comorbidity with related symptoms. These "core," periphe ral, or associated features of depression were identified. Implications of the findings for describing and defining depression in these persons are di scussed. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd.