Construction and statistical testing of a short version of the SCL-90-R

In response to the criticism of the multidimensionality of the SCL-90 it wa s attempted to construct a one-dimensional short version (SCL-K-9). Based o n a representative survey 1996, from each of the 9 SCL-90-R scales the item showing the highest correlation with the Global Severity Index (GSI-90) wa s selected. The resulting 9-item scale correlates with the GSI-90 at r = .9 3. In a second representative survey 1998, examination of the SCL-K-9 revea led a one-dimensional factor structure, a Cronbach Alpha = .87, a mean comp arable to the GSI-90 with a slightly increased variance. The SCL-K-9 shows significant correlations ranging from .36 to .65 with the Giessen Symptom C hecklist, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, the Nottingham Health Profile, the Sense of Coherence Scale, and the Whiteley-Index. Regarding se x- and age-specific differences, a higher mean was found for women and olde r persons. The SCL-K-9 represents a reliable and valid instrument for effic ient application.