A convenient method of obtaining percentile norms and accompanying interval estimates for self-report mood scales (DASS, DASS-21, HADS, PANAS, and sAD)

Abstract

Background. A series of recent papers have reported normative data from the general adult population for commonly used self-report mood scales. Aims. To bring together and supplement these data in order to provide a convenient means of obtaining percentile norms for the mood scales. Method. Acomputer programwas developed that provides point and interval estimates of the percentile rank corresponding to raw scores on the various self-report scales. Results. The program can be used to obtain point and interval estimates of the percentile rank of an individual's raw scores on the DASS, DASS-21, HADS, PANAS, and sADmood scales, based on normative sample sizes ranging from 758 to 3822. The interval estimates can be obtained using either classical or Bayesian methods as preferred. Conclusion. The computer program (which can be downloaded at www.abdn.ac.uk/-psy086/dept/MoodScore.htm) provides a convenient and reliable means of supplementing existing cut-off scores for self-report mood scales. © 2009 The British Psychological Society.