The Multidimensional Behavior Rating Scale (MBRS) was constructed to assess symptoms of depression across seven modalities: behavior, affect, sensation, imagery, cognition, interpersonal relationship, and drugs. Subjects (N=33) were matched by level of depression on the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory Depression Scale to either a behavioral self-control, behavioral therapist control, or attention-placebo group. Subjects completed the MBRS, three traditional measures of depression, and a test of motor speed before treatment, after the sixth week of treatment, and at one- and three-month maintenance periods. The MBRS was also completed by an "observer" spouse or friend of each subject during the same assessment intervals. Significant assessment period main effects were apparent for the total score of the MBRS and for the Behavior, Affect, Sensation, Cognition, and the Interpersonal subscales, indicating that more comprehensive behavioral measures can be used to assess depression. There were significant differences at posttreatment and maintenance for subjects on the MBRS as well as on traditional measures and the overt behavioral measure. Friends and relatives of the depressed subjects were also accurate assessors of the level of depression. (NRB)