TRANSLATION, ADAPTATION, AND VALIDATION OF DEPRESSION, ANXIETY, AND STRESS SCALE (DASS-42) IN SINDHI LANGUAGE

Abstract

Background: The last decade has observed a conspicuous rise in the prevalence of mental health disorders especially anxiety and depression which is a serious threat to a public health concern.

Objective: The current study aimed to translate and adapt the original version of the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-42) in the Sindhi language and confirm the factor structure.

Methodology: The data was collected from the students of the University of Sindh ranging between 18 to 35 years using convenient sampling. The study employed quantitative research design and was completed in three phases i.e. translation, cross-validation, and confirmation of the factor structure of the translated version. The forward and Back translation method was used to translate the assessment ensuring semantic and conceptual equivalence. Pilot testing was performed on 30 participants and the final assessment procedure included 200 participants. The statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS and AMOS.

Results: The results indicated that both versions had reliabilities above acceptable ranges. CFA supported the employed model of DASS-42 however, some challenges were observed suggesting further need for exploration.

Conclusion: The factor structure and overall research data results revealed that the translated tool was a reliable and valid instrument in Sindhi culture.