Descriptors of depression: the importance of agreed definitions.
OBJECTIVE
We suggest that some descriptors and criteria of depressive features lack clarity or are overinclusive, with definitional limitations and vagaries in rating options, leading to variable ratings of similar items across differing measures as well as cloudy interpretation of positive ratings.


METHODS
We illustrate these limitations by reference to two items: 'guilt' and 'distinct quality of mood'.


RESULTS
We note problems emerging from confounded and imprecise definitions.


CONCLUSIONS
We emphasise the need for definitions of depressive descriptors possessing greater specificity.
Parker
G
G
Mood Disorders Unit, Prince Henry Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
Sengoz
A
A
D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000523:psychology; D006167:Guilt; D006801:Humans; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; D009626:Terminology as Topic