Score Reliability Generalization of the Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS): A Meta-Analysis

Abstract

This study aimed to provide meta-analytic reliability information of the Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS). We implemented systematic search procedures to 35 eligible studies (N = 23,247; Mage = 26.74 years) that reported reliability estimates. The synthesized average values of Cronbach’s alpha were .88 (95% CI [.85, .92]) for the total C-SSRS scores, .88 (95% CI [.87, .89]) for the Suicidal Ideation Severity subscale, .76 (95% CI [.70, .83]) for the Intensity of Ideation subscale, and .81 (95% CI [.74, .88]) for the Suicidal Behavior subscale. Inter-rater reliability of the C-SSRS scores, as mostly indicated by Kappa coefficients, ranged from .67 to 1.00, suggesting substantial agreement. Additionally, other reliability estimates were examined, such as Guttman split-half reliability, McDonald’s omega, and composite reliability. The findings of this study provided evidence of moderate to strong reliability for the C-SSRS scores. Implications for counselors and counseling researchers were provided.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT

This study provides evidence of the score reliability of the C-SSRS, a crucial tool for evaluating suicidality. Furthermore, it highlights the importance of addressing score reliability in counseling research and training, with the goal of advancing measurement and assessment within this profession and to enhance the quality of counseling services.

Keywords:

• Columbia-suicide severity rating scale
• reliability
• reliability generalization
• suicide assessment
• meta-analysis

Disclosure statement

The authors report no competing interests to declare.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Sojeong Nam

Sojeong Nam, Ph.D., LMHC, NCC is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Individual, Family, and Community Education at The University of New Mexico.

Byeolbee Um

Byeolbee Um, Ph.D. is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Educational Psychology at The University of Oklahoma.

Jeongwoon Jeong

Jeongwoon Jeong, Ph.D., LMHC, NCC is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Individual, Family, and Community Education at The University of New Mexico.

Monique Rodriguez

Monique Rodriguez, Ph.D., LPCC is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Individual, Family, and Community Education at The University of New Mexico.

David Lardier

David Lardier, Ph.D., LPCC is an Assistant Research Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science at The University of New Mexico.