What is the Behavioral Activation for Depression Scale (BADS)?

The BADS is a 25-item self-report measure designed to assess behaviors hypothesized to underlie depression and targeted by behavioral activation treatment. It measures both behavioral activation and avoidance patterns.

Who developed it and when?

Developed by Jonathan Kanter, Andrew Mulick, and colleagues in 2007, based on behavioral activation theory for depression treatment.

What type of assessment is it?

Self-report questionnaire using a 7-point Likert scale.

What does it assess?

• Activation: Goal-directed behavior and engagement in meaningful activities
• Avoidance/Rumination: Patterns of behavioral and cognitive avoidance
• Work/School Impairment: Functional impairment in work or academic settings
• Social Impairment: Difficulties in social functioning and relationships

How many items and what format?

25 items rated on a 7-point scale from "Not at all" to "Completely".

How is it scored?

Items are summed for subscales and total score. Higher activation scores indicate more adaptive behavior, while higher avoidance scores indicate more problematic patterns.