The dimensional algorithm of the PHQ-9 demonstrated high criterion validity, whereas the categorical algorithm should not be applied due to its low sensitivity. Even though the PHQ-2 performed well, validity of the PHQ-9 was still superior. Hence, the PHQ-9 can be recommended as depression screener for adolescents to improve recognition rates in pediatric care.

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The aim of the present study was to develop and validate the Children's Depression Screener (ChilD-S) for use in pediatric care. In two pediatric samples, children aged 9-12 (N(I) = 200; N(II) = 246) completed an explorative item pool (subsample I) and a revised item pool (subsample II). Diagnostic accuracy of each of the 22 items from the revised pool was evaluated in order to select the best items for the brief instrument ChilD-S. Areas under the curve (AUCs) of the revised item pool and the ChilD-S were compared. A diagnostic interview, the Kinder-DIPS, served as gold standard. For the purpose of screening for depressive disorders in children, the eight-item ChilD-S (AUC = 0.97) performed just as well as the revised 22-item pool (AUC = 0.94). For the ChilD-S the optimal cut-off point of ≥11 yielded a sensitivity of 0.91 and a specificity of 0.89. The ChilD-S shows high potential for depression screening of children in pediatric care.

BackgroundDepression is one of the most common psychiatric illnesses worldwide, but is nevertheless preventable. Since the children of parents who have depression are at greatest risk of developing depression themselves, prevention programmes for this population are a major public health priority. Here we report the study protocol of a randomised controlled trial of a group-based psychological intervention for families with i) at least one parent who suffers (or has suffered) from depression and ii) at least one child who has no current or previous psychiatric diagnosis.Methods/DesignEligible families will be randomly allocated to receive either a German adaptation of the 12-session cognitive-behavioural Raising Healthy Children intervention (Gesund und glücklich aufwachsen; N = 50), or no intervention (usual care; N = 50). The primary outcome (child diagnosis of an episode of depression) will be assessed at 15-month follow-up. The secondary outcomes (child psychopathological symptoms) will be assessed immediately following completion of the intervention (6-months), as well as at 9- and 15-month follow-up. We hypothesise that children in the intervention condition, compared with those who do not receive the intervention, will show fewer symptoms of psychopathology, and be less likely to meet diagnostic criteria for a depressive episode, at follow-up.DiscussionDespite their elevated risk of developing depression, there is little formal support available for the children of parents with depression. This study provides an important step in the development of more effective depression prevention measures, which are needed if the personal, social and economic burden of depression is to be reduced.Trial registrationClinical Trials NCT02115880. Registered April 7 2014.