Researchers support the use of a mood survey that measures some of these multiple repeatable characteristics as well as one that differentiates between negative mood dimensions because a scale that evaluates depression alone may overlook elevations in other psychological states such as anxiety or stress (Boyle, 1987). According to Boyle (1987) change in depression scores might even result from its correlation with other mood states.

Much of the research on mood has used the Profile of Mood States (POMS; McNair, Lorr, & Droppleman, 1992). This inventory contains six dimensions; Anxiety, Depression, Fatigue, Confusion, Tension and Vigor. Although there is some validity evidence supporting the measure, some reduction in the number of moods presented in the profile might be justified (Norcross, Guadagnoli, & Prochaska, 1984). There is also research that indicates that the POMS excludes other important mood states dimensions such as Friendliness and Worthless-Depression (Boyle, 1987).

In the present study a set of items was developed to measure mood dimensions. The inventory, consisting of 84 items, was administered to 155 college students with the intention of developing a new mood survey. The resulting preliminary factor analysis from the data set supports the literature by showing that fewer than six factors can be used to measure mood. More specifically, Hostility and Tension were so highly correlated that two separate factors were not warranted (r = .82). Confusion and Exhaustion were also highly correlated (r = .71) and the items on these two dimensions loaded on the same factor.