Psychometric evaluation of PANSS in adolescent schizophrenia trials

The 30 item Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) is a widely used primary efficacy scale in schizophrenia trials. It was used in the aripiprazole trial referenced above. The PANSS was developed for adults and takes a substantial amount of interview time. The psychometrics of the scale have not been well explored in adolescent samples. Our group is working to develop a psychometrically sound shorter form. A shorter form PANSS that concentrated on the most helpful items would reduce burden for participants, as well as training and administration costs for researchers. A shorter form also would be helpful in clinical applications.