Interesting question. I didn't have anything to do with the test design, but if you look at the content of the questions, then you'll see that each one tries to tap into a major symptom of an established mental disorder, tied into The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, the "bible" for diagnosing them by mental-health professionals. Therefore, the more the person manifests this symptom, the higher the score--and the more likely the person would receive such a diagnosis. The results provide an actual "score," but I think the most important feedback to the test taker is the listing of the issues and whether they are minor or major.

Of course, this test is just a rough estimate, but given the way the test is designed, the lower scores suggest more normal thinking and behavior. I haven't looked at the info for awhile, but I seem to recall that there is some statement about what the score of "normality" is--that and below, or something like that. A score in the 30's suggests the person is not struggling with any major issues.

Remember that the test assumes that people are being truthful in their responses. I doubt anybody would score a "0," unless the person is being dishonest! I hope my answer helps.