Can the C-SSRS be used with children and adolescents?

The Columbia – Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) is indeed appropriate for use with children and adolescents, provided that necessary adjustments are made to accommodate their developmental stage. The scale can assess suicidal ideation and behavior effectively across various age groups, including younger populations, by ensuring that language and context are suitable for their understanding.

Using the C-SSRS for children and adolescents allows for early identification of suicide risk, which is crucial given that mental health challenges can manifest differently in younger individuals. The clinical context, including the interviewer’s approach and the particular nuances of assessing children’s thoughts and feelings, can be adapted to ensure that the assessment is both valid and reliable.

In contrast, other choices incorrectly suggest limitations or restrictions that do not apply to the versatile nature of the C-SSRS.