Constructing the computer-rated Face Stimulus Assessment-Revised (FSA-R) to assess formal elements of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

The Face Stimulus Assessment-Revised (FSA-R) is an art-based instrument constructed from elements of the Face Stimulus Assessment (FSA, Betts, 2003). The pilot test of the FSA-R involved comparing computerized ratings of formal elements between those with Major Depressive Disorder (n = 20), and controls without known diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder (n = 20). Significance resulted from a multiple t test analysis of the data. In response to the hypothesis that computer-rated formal elements of color or free space, or both, from the FSA-R can distinguish artwork of those with Major Depression from the artwork of those without Major Depression, this researcher concluded that, with Bonferroni-adjusted alpha levels of .005 (.05/9) per test, those with Major Depression drew less purple (t(38) = −2.95, p = .05, d = −.96) than controls. As a result, the FSA-R requires further study using improved experimental methods, including the control of comorbid factors present in this study in order for it to become a standardized instrument for screening for depression.

► An initial example of a computer-rated instrument. ► Construction of an art-based test using established test construction methods. ► Demonstration of computer rating for screening mental illness. ► Significant differences in formal elements between experimental and control group as detected by computerized programs. ► Possibility of increased reliability and validity of art-based instruments through computer rating.