What Is This Test Really Measuring?
When you find an online depression test you cannot be sure that it actually measures depression in children.
Psychological assessments used by mental health professionals have proven psychometric properties and are shown to be valid, which means it actually measures what it claims to.
Appropriate Use of Psychological Tests
Most online depression or personality tests are geared towards adults, which makes them generally inappropriate for use in children. Psychological assessment tools used by professionals are approved for use in certain ages and in certain languages. These tools should not be used in different age groups or translated into different languages, which is often found on the Internet.
Scoring and Interpretation
Some Internet tests may have automatic scoring and a brief interpretation. A psychological assessment should only be administered, scored and interpreted by a professional who is trained on the assessment and knows your child.
How Screening Tools May Be Helpful
Some depression screening tools from trusted organizations may help you to recognize if your child has symptoms of depression and encourage you to seek professional help for your child.
Helping Your Child
Many parents are searching for ways to understand what their child is feeling and thinking. You are not alone in wanting to help your child through a difficult time.
If you are concerned about your child's emotions or behavior seek advice from her pediatrician or other mental health provider. Some symptoms of depression in children may be:
- Academic decline
- Withdrawal from friends and family
- Risk-Taking behaviors
- Guilt
- Unexplained crying
- Clinging to a parent
- Unexplained vague physical complaints (stomachache, headache)
- Thoughts or actions of self-harm
The Internet has a wealth of information for supporting and guiding you through your child's depression and recovery. Just remember the limitations of online depression tests and never attempt to treat your child for depression. Depression is a serious mental condition, which requires treatment by a professional. With an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan your child can make a full recovery.
Sources:
Jack A. Naglieri, Fritz Drasgow, Mark Schmit, Len Handler, Aurelio Prifitera, Amy Margolis, Roberto Velasquez. "Psychological Testing on the Internet: New Problems, Old Issues." American Psychologist. April 2004 59(3): 150-162.
S.B. Williams, E.A. O'Connor, Eder, M. Whitlock, E.P. "Screening for Child and Adolescent Depression in Primary Care Settings: A Systematic Evidence Review for the US Preventive Services Task Force." Pediatrics 4 Apr 09 123(4):e716-e735.
