A newly developed instrument for screening depression suggests that an individual is not depressed; however, later information reveals that in fact he is depressed. This problem can be attributed to:

A) parallel forms.
B) internal consistency.
C) a false positive.
D) a false negative.
E) sampling error.

False Negative

A test result that incorrectly indicates the absence of a condition or attribute when it is actually present.

False Positive

An error in data reporting where a test incorrectly indicates the presence of a condition, phenomenon, or attribute when it is not actually present.

Screening Depression

A process or tool used to identify individuals who may be experiencing symptoms of depression, often as a preliminary step to further evaluation.