A comparative study of four depression rating scales.

Comparisons were made between the overall scores on the Beck, Hamilton, Zung and a visual analogue rating scale in a group of depressed patients. The comparisons were made initially and at one, two and three weeks. Significant correlations between the global scores were found on these depression scales. The value of these scales in clinical research studies in depression is discussed wirh special mention of the value of the visual analogue scale.