Beck Depression Inventory-II: Factor Analyses with Three Groups of Midlife Women of African Descent in the Midwest, the South, and the U.S. Virgin Islands

Abstract

This research encompasses a factor analysis of the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), which involves three groups of midlife women of African descent who reside in the Midwest, the South, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The purpose of the study was to determine the factor structure of the BDI-II when administered to a sample of women aged 40–65 of African descent who reside in the three distinct geographical regions of the United States. A correlational, descriptive design was used, and 536 women of African descent were invited to participate in face-to-face interviews that transpired in community settings. Results of the factor analysis revealed a two-factor explanation. Factor one included symptoms such as punishment feelings and pessimism (cognitive), and the second factor included symptoms such as tiredness and loss of energy (somatic-affective). The application of the Beck Depression Inventory-II among the three groups of women generated specific information about each group and common findings across the groups. Knowledge gained from the research could help to guide specific intervention programs for the three groups of women, and explicate the common approaches that could be used for the three groups.

Association of Psychosocial Symptoms, Blood Pressure, and Menopausal Status in African-American Women

“…Differences in hypertension prevalence among African-American women, when compared to other racial-ethnic groups, are related to lower socioeconomic status, daily work-life hassles, unfair treatment in society (discrimination and racism), acute stressors, and the cumulative impact of stress over the life course (Dennis, Markey, Johnston, Vander Wal, & Artinian, 2008;Gary et al, 2018;Ogedegbe, 2008). Research has linked increased stress with early onset of menopause among African-American women (Gold et al, 2001;Wassertheil-Smoller et al, 2000).…”

“…In our study, we found that life stressors were associated with depression, social support, menopausal symptoms, the number of chronic conditions, and perceived health status. Various types of stress have been empirically shown to produce detrimental effects on mental health and were linked to increased rates of depression (Gary et al, 2018;Whooley et al, 2008).…”

“…This study is a secondary analysis of a larger multi-site investigation. The parent study was a descriptive-correlation design that explored the knowledge, health beliefs and practices, and well-being of perimenopausal women of African descent (Gary et al, 2018). A convenience sample of 557 women from three regions in the United States (South, Midwest, and U.S. Virgin Islands) was recruited from a variety of community-based establishments within a 50-mile radius of large universities.…”

“…Various methods were used to recruit participants. Distribution of fliers and brochures at local community events and businesses (community centers, barbershops, and beauty salons), and informational sessions with local leaders at health-related organizations and churches to discuss research opportunities were used to recruit participants (Gary et al, 2018). These community engagements encouraged the "word-of-mouth" recruitment strategy, which evolved naturally to enroll a large number of participants at each site.…”

“…During the interview, demographic characteristics and several research measures were obtained. All research-related information, including the informed consent and data collection measures, were read aloud to the participant by a trained nurse researcher (Gary et al, 2018). In addition, data were collected on anthropometric measures such as height, weight, and BP.…”