NCJ Number
145682
Journal
Law and Human Behavior Volume: 13 Issue: 1 Dated: (1989) Pages: 1-18
Date Published
1989
Length
18 pages
Annotation
The Referral Decision Scale (RDS) was developed to identify detainees likely to have a severe mental disorder that would require appropriate diagnosis and treatment.
Abstract
The RDS is designed to detect persons suffering from schizophrenia, manic-depressive illness, and major depression. These disorders are among the most severe and are usually the most amenable to circumscribed treatment strategies. The 14- item scale was derived using discriminant analysis from data collected via the National Institutes of Mental Health Diagnostic Interview Schedule (NIMH-DIS), using a sample of 728 male jail detainees. The scale was validated on a sample of 1,114 prison inmates. Specifically, the data analysis consisted of four steps: item selection, statistical derivation of the RDS, determination of cutoff points, and validation. Additional work on the RDS is needed in terms of validating the scale vis a vis other assessment instruments, testing the external validity of the scale, and investigating whether the scale can stand alone. The reliability and validity of the RDS will be assured only if preceded by an extensive training program which emphasizes recognition of symptoms, structure and administration of the RDS, and confirmation of interrater validity and reliability. 2 tables, 4 notes, 1 appendix, and 51 references