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Learning Objective 1: Based on the results of this analysis, the learner will be able to identify the factor structure of the CES-D scale in Black single mothers.
Learning Objective 2: Based on the results of this study, the learner will be able evaluate the construct validity of the CES-D scale for Black single mothers.
The purpose of this study was to investigate the factor structure of the Center for
Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CES-D) scale in a community sample of Black single
mothers using exploratory factor analysis. This study also evaluated the construct validity of
the CES-D via correlations with anger scales, based on theoretical propositions.
The final sample consisted of 208 Black single mothers from the community aged of 18
and 45 who met the inclusion-exclusion criteria. The participants responded to The Centers for
Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale and The Spielberger State-Trait Anger Expression
Inventory in various community settings.
The data were analyzed using the SPSS computer program. Principal component
analysis followed by orthogonal rotation was used to determine the factor structure.
Initially the factors were allowed to emerge resulting in five factors with eigenvalues greater than
one. This justified ordering factor solutions ranging from five to two. The findings indicated
that a two-factor structure was the most interpretable. Fifteen items loaded on Factor 1 and five
items loaded on Factor 2. Tentative names were given to the factors, each of which had
acceptable coefficient alphas (>.80). The construct validity of the CES-D scale in Black single
mothers was confirmed via statistically significant positive correlations with the anger scales.
The pattern of correlations confirmed the two factor structure.
Future studies should use confirmatory factor analysis for the CES-D with Black single
mothers. Additional psychometric evidence for the CES-D for Black single mothers is
warranted.