How many items are included in the Beck Depression Inventory II (BDI-II)?

The Beck Depression Inventory II (BDI-II) comprises 21 items designed to assess the severity of depression in individuals. Each item corresponds to specific symptoms and attitudes associated with depression, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of the individual's mood and functional state. The BDI-II was developed to be a more thorough and refined tool compared to its predecessor, the original BDI, which included fewer items and lacked certain aspects relevant to current understanding of depressive disorders.

The items in the BDI-II are rated on a scale that ranges from 0 to 3, and the total score reflects the severity of depressive symptoms, enabling clinicians to effectively monitor changes over time and guide treatment decisions. The inclusion of 21 distinct items ensures that the assessment captures a wide array of depressive symptoms, providing a nuanced understanding of an individual's mental health status.