Psychometric Properties of Responses to an Arabic Version of the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D₆)

BACKGROUND: Among existing instruments, the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale has become the gold standard for assessing depressive symptoms. An Arabic version of this instrument is lacking. OBJECTIVE: This study examines the psychometric properties of responses to an abridged Arabic version of the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D₆). DESIGN: A total of 125 Bedouin Arabs completed a questionnaire consisting of the HAM-D₆ and other Well-Being measures. The HAM-D₆ was assessed using confirmatory factor analysis. Concurrent validity was also examined. RESULTS: Responses to the HAM-D₆ suggest that this instrument measures a unidimensional construct with each of the scales’ six items contributing significantly to the measurement. Concurrent validity was established by the scale’s negative association with well-being and positive associations with emotional exhaustion and caregiving burden. CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that this abridged Arabic version of the HAM-D₆ is appropriate for use for evaluating depressive symptoms.