Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale-21 (DASS-21): Further psychometric exploration using robust item response theory and classical theory measures among university students.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Psychometric validity of the 21-item Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS-21) has not been studied among Ethiopians. This study investigated the psychometric properties of the DASS-21 using Item Response Theory (IRT) and classical theory among Ethiopian university students.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted with 364 Ethiopian university students. Participants completed a socio-demographic questionnaire, the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAM-A), and the DASS-21.

Results

Factor analysis and measures of quality of factor estimates, construct stability, and robustness of unidimensionality supported a one-factor structure. Item parameters were satisfactory for all but three items using both CTT and IRT. Some CTT parameters indicated deviation from uni

SUBMITTER: Manzar MD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12303295 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature