Which diagnostic tool is most appropriate for diagnosing depression in adolescents?

The Beck Depression Inventory for Primary Care is particularly well-suited for diagnosing depression in adolescents because it is specifically designed to assess the severity of depressive symptoms. This tool has a proven track record in clinical settings and is tailored to identify the nuances of depression, allowing clinicians to gain a deeper understanding of the individual's mental health status.

Additionally, it takes into consideration the various manifestations of depression that can present differently in adolescents compared to adults, making it an excellent choice for this age group. Its structure allows for effective screening and monitoring of the effectiveness of treatments over time.

While the other tools listed are valuable in their own right, they may not be as targeted for diagnosing depression in adolescents. For instance, the Mood Disorder Questionnaire is broader and primarily aimed at identifying mood disorders in general rather than focusing specifically on depression. My Mood Monitor is more of a self-management tool for tracking mood rather than a formal diagnostic instrument. The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, on the other hand, is a personality assessment tool that does not delve into mood disorders or mental health conditions, making it inappropriate for diagnosing depression.