Development and Psychometric Evaluation of the MHI-9: A Brief Dual-Factor Mental Health Screener for Nonclinical Filipino University Students
Publication Date
1-1-2025
Document Type
Article
Publication Title
Measurement and Evaluation in Counseling and Development
Abstract
Objective: The study aimed to develop and evaluate the Mental Health Inventory-9 (MHI-9), a brief dual-factor screener of psychological distress and well-being for nonclinical Filipino university students. Method: A total of 1,474 students ages 18 to 24 completed the Mental Health Inventory-38, Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item, Patient Health Questionnaire-9, and College Student Subjective Well-Being Questionnaire. Stratified subsamples underwent confirmatory factor analysis, graded response item response theory, measurement invariance testing, and receiver operating characteristic analysis. Results: Evidence supported interpreting scores as reflecting distinct psychological distress and psychological well-being dimensions, with strong item discrimination and balanced coverage. Reliability estimates for scores were high. Associations with anxiety, depression, and well-being measures aligned with theoretical expectations, and screening analyses indicated effective identification of students at elevated risk. Measurement invariance supported comparable interpretations across sex and community type. Conclusion: The MHI-9 yields reliable scores and evidence for the validity of their interpretations, offering a culturally adapted, rapid screening option to guide early, school-based mental health intervention in Philippine higher education.
APA Citation
Antazo, B.
(1-1-2025).
Development and Psychometric Evaluation of the MHI-9: A Brief Dual-Factor Mental Health Screener for Nonclinical Filipino University Students.
Faculty Research and Scholarly Works.
DOI:10.1080/07481756.2025.2553293