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Park T, Hirani S. A Methodological Review of Quality of Life Scales Used in Schizophrenia. J Nurs Meas 2021; 29:34-52. [PMID: 33334848 DOI: 10.1891/jnm-d-18-00053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Evidence is lacking with regard to the most suitable instrument for measuring quality of life (QOL) in patients with schizophrenia. The researchers carried out a methodological review of literature pertaining to scales used to measure QOL in this population. METHODS Twenty-eight studies, assessing nine different QOL scales, were reviewed using the COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) checklist. RESULTS While the content of most scales proved valid, the Lancashire Quality of Life Profile (LQOLP), Self-Report Quality of Life Scale (SQOL), and Quality of Life in Schizophrenia (QLiS) outscored the other scales in almost every other domain measured by COSMIN. CONCLUSION LQOLP and SQOL stand out among QOL scales for patients with schizophrenia, but further evidence is required to verify this finding, and no one scale appears ideal for all patients with schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanya Park
- University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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2
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Eklund M, Hansson L, Bengtsson-Tops A. The influence of temperament and character on functioning and aspects of psychological health among people with schizophrenia. Eur Psychiatry 2020; 19:34-41. [PMID: 14969779 DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpsy.2003.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2002] [Revised: 01/07/2003] [Accepted: 07/25/2003] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
AbstractResearch findings that link personality factors to functioning and symptoms in schizophrenia are inconsistent, and further studies are needed within the area. The purpose of this study was to investigate how personality, as measured by the Temperament and Character Inventory (TCI), was related to demographic factors, subtypes of diagnoses, level of functioning, and aspects of psychological health, including sense of coherence, perceived control, and self-esteem, among people with schizophrenia. Subjects were 104 individuals, aged 20–55 years, in psychiatric outpatient care. The results indicated that personality was not related to subtypes of diagnoses or demographic characteristics of the respondents, but to level of functioning and all aspects of psychological health. Especially self-directedness distinguished three groups of functioning and was highly correlated with the different aspects of psychological health. The article discusses how knowledge of schizophrenic patients’ personality structure might be used for tailoring psychiatric treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Eklund
- Division of Occupational Therapy, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Lund University, P.O. Box 157, 22100 Lund, Sweden.
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3
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Ljungqvist I, Topor A, Forssell H, Svensson I, Davidson L. Money and Mental Illness: A Study of the Relationship Between Poverty and Serious Psychological Problems. Community Ment Health J 2016; 52:842-50. [PMID: 26433374 DOI: 10.1007/s10597-015-9950-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2015] [Accepted: 09/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Several studies have indicated a co-occurrence between mental problems, a bad economy, and social isolation. Medical treatments focus on reducing the extent of psychiatric problems. Recent research, however, has highlighted the possible effects of social initiatives. The aim of this study was to examine the relation between severe mental illness, economic status, and social relations. METHOD a financial contribution per month was granted to 100 individuals with severe mental illnesses for a 9-month period. Assessments of the subjects were made before the start of the intervention and after 7 months' duration. A comparison group including treatment as usual only was followed using the same instruments. Significant improvements were found for depression and anxiety, social networks, and sense of self. No differences in functional level were found. Social initiatives may have treatment and other beneficial effects and should be integrated into working contextually with persons with severe mental illnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alain Topor
- Department of Social Work, Stockholms University, Stockholm, Sweden
- Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, University of Agder, Grimstad, Norway
| | - Henrik Forssell
- Blekinge County Hospital and Blekinge Centre of Competence, Karlskrona, Sweden
| | - Idor Svensson
- Department of Psychology, Linnaeus University, Kalmar, Sweden
| | - Larry Davidson
- School of Medicine and Institution for Social and Policy Studies, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
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4
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Reliability and Validity of the Roberts UCLA Loneliness Scale (RULS-8) With Dutch-Speaking Adolescents in Belgium. Psychol Belg 2014. [DOI: 10.5334/pb.ae] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
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5
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Lindstedt H, Umb-Carlsson Õ. Cognitive assistive technology and professional support in everyday life for adults with ADHD. Disabil Rehabil Assist Technol 2013; 8:402-8. [DOI: 10.3109/17483107.2013.769120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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6
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Bejerholm U. Relationships between occupational engagement and status of and satisfaction with sociodemographic factors in a group of people with schizophrenia. Scand J Occup Ther 2011; 17:244-54. [PMID: 19929266 DOI: 10.3109/11038120903254323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
The present study is part of a larger project investigating occupational engagement and health in a group of people with schizophrenia. This study was aimed at extending this knowledge base with regard to occupational engagement and sociodemographic factors. Seventy-four outpatients participated in the study. The Profile of Occupational Engagement in People with Schizophrenia, the Lancashire Quality of Life Profile scale and a standardized questionnaire were used to gather data. Contrary to what was expected, occupational engagement was not associated with a certain type of schizophrenia, being younger or older, or gender. The results showed that a high level of occupational engagement was related to greater satisfaction with the participants' social and living situation, having a reliable alliance and a close friend, school-leaving age, living in a flat, and working or studying. Satisfaction with living independently, having had a recent experience of accomplishment, and working together explained 55% of the variance in occupational engagement. Occupational therapists should thus focus on and promote social engagement appropriate to the client's level of engagement, the client's opportunity and ability to work, his/her experience of accomplishment, and, most importantly, satisfaction with the home and living situation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrika Bejerholm
- The Vårdal Institute, Swedish Institute for Health Sciences, Lund University, Sweden.
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7
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8
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Hansson TBL. Client satisfaction with case management: A study of 10 pilot services in Sweden. J Ment Health 2009. [DOI: 10.1080/09638230123831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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9
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Hewitt J. Critical evaluation of the use of research tools in evaluating quality of life for people with schizophrenia. Int J Ment Health Nurs 2007; 16:2-14. [PMID: 17229269 DOI: 10.1111/j.1447-0349.2006.00438.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Schizophrenia may lead to impairments in many aspects of life, including physical, cognitive, and role functioning. The subjective quality of life of people with schizophrenia has been shown to be lower than in the general population and appropriate patient-assessed health outcome measures are necessary to capture the distress and disability experienced by people living with a serious mental illness. Although psychiatry has been slow to become involved in quality of life measurement, the use of quality of life instruments has now been recognized as a means of evaluating the outcome of care interventions, in terms of symptoms and functioning. This paper evaluates the effectiveness of two widely used instruments: The Medical Outcomes Study Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) and The Lancashire Quality of Life Profile (LQoLP) in terms of reliability and validity in measuring the quality of life of people with schizophrenia. The LQoLP appeared to be best suited for evaluation of care programmes, whereas the SF-36 was more appropriate for medical trials, comparisons between patient groups, and assessment of the direct consequences of treatment on health and function. Subjective quality of life should, however, be considered to be distinct from clinical status and quality of life assessment should include the broadest range of indicators, to reflect the holistic ethos of mental health nursing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeanette Hewitt
- Centre for Mental Health Studies, School of Health Science, University of Wales Swansea, Swansea, South Wales, UK.
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10
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Eklund M, Bengtsson-Tops A, Lindstedt H. Construct and discriminant validity and dimensionality of the Interview Schedule for Social Interaction (ISSI) in three psychiatric samples. Nord J Psychiatry 2007; 61:182-8. [PMID: 17523029 DOI: 10.1080/08039480701352439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
This study was aimed at investigating the psychometric properties of the Interview Schedule for Social Interaction (ISSI), in terms of construct and discriminant validity and unidimensionality, in three psychiatric samples with varying prerequisites for social interaction: 1) an outpatient sample of working age with mixed diagnoses, 2) an outpatient sample with schizophrenia, and 3) an inpatient sample composed of mentally ill, male offenders. The target constructs were psychosocial functioning and satisfaction in different life domains. It was hypothesized that the ISSI would mainly be related to psychosocial functioning and life domains characterized by social interaction, such as friends and family. A second hypothesis was that the ISSI ratings would discriminate between the three samples. The first hypothesis was confirmed, but the pattern of relationships was somewhat different between the groups. Whereas family contacts were of great importance for social integration in Samples 1 and 2, friends seemed more important for the mentally ill offenders. The second hypothesis was partly confirmed: three ISSI sub-scales out of four discriminated between the samples. Moreover, the ISSI proved to be a unidimensional construct. The support for the four proposed sub-scales was not unanimous, however, and the sub-scales targeting attachment constituted less stable factors. This study demonstrated the construct and discriminant validity of the ISSI when applied to samples with various mental disorders. The fact that similar results were obtained in all three samples, despite varying prerequisites for social interaction, strongly supports the validity of the ISSI. Providing the sub-scales are used with caution, the ISSI seems to be a reliable tool for use with patients with severe mental disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Eklund
- Department of Health Sciences, Division of Occupational Therapy, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.
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11
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Hansson L, Björkman T. Are factors associated with subjective quality of life in people with severe mental illness consistent over time?--A 6-year follow-up study. Qual Life Res 2006; 16:9-16. [PMID: 17033895 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-006-9119-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2006] [Accepted: 08/21/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the cross-sectional relationship between subjective quality of life and sociodemographic clinical and social factors over three points of assessment during a 6-year follow-up, and to investigate longitudinal predictors of subjective quality of life. METHOD We investigated a sample of people with severe mental illness (n = 92), mainly with a psychosis diagnosis, at baseline and at an 18-month and 6-year follow-up. Measures included the Lancashire quality of life profile, Manchester short assessment of quality of life, Symptom Check List 90, Camberwell Assessment of Needs and the Interview Schedule for Social Interaction. RESULTS Cross-sectionally subjective quality of life was associated to self-reported symptoms, social network and unmet needs. However, these determinants varied in importance between points of assessment. Longitudinal predictors of subjective quality of life were changes in self-reported symptoms and social network. CONCLUSION There was a rather consistent set of determinants of subjective quality of life over time. Social network seems to be an important factor with relevance for improvements in subjective quality of life, however largely overlooked in earlier studies within the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars Hansson
- Department of Health Sciences, Lund University, PO Box 157, Lund, SE-221 00, Sweden.
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12
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Lindstedt H, Ivarsson AB, Söderlund A. Background factors related to and/or influencing occupation in mentally disordered offenders. Scand J Caring Sci 2006; 20:331-8. [PMID: 16922988 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-6712.2006.00412.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Knowledge of background and occupational related factors of mentally disordered offenders are missing. It is essential to understand these issues when planning discharge from forensic psychiatric hospital care to enable community dwelling. AIMS One aim was to investigate mentally disordered offenders' background factors, confidence in and how they value occupations. Another aim was to investigate MDOs background factors' in relation to and the influences on Occupational Performance and Social Participation. METHOD Data was collected with an explorative, correlative design after informed consent, from 74 mentally disordered offenders (mean age 34,2) cared for in forensic psychiatric hospitals. Assessments were Allen Cognitive Level Screen, Capability to Perform Daily Occupations, Interview Schedule of Social Interaction, Manchester Short Assessment of Quality of Life, Self-efficacy Scale and Importance scale. Eight background factors were assembled from the individual forensic psychiatric investigation. FINDINGS Most of the investigated background factors relate to and half of them influence occupational performance, particular the cognitive aspect of occupational performance. The influences on occupation originate from adulthood, such as suffering from schizophrenia, psycho/social problems, and having performed violent crimes. These findings indicate that staff in forensic hospital care should initiate rehabilitation with knowledge about MDOs' complex daily occupations. For avoiding information bias, information gathering preceding treatment planning should be performed in collaboration between caring staff and mentally disordered offenders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Lindstedt
- Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
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13
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Eklund M, Bäckström M. A model of subjective quality of life for outpatients with schizophrenia and other psychoses. Qual Life Res 2005; 14:1157-68. [PMID: 16041910 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-004-2960-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated predictors of quality of life among persons with schizophrenia and other psychoses. On the basis of previous research, it was hypothesised that objective life circumstances, self-variables, psychopathology, activity level, satisfaction with daily activities, and satisfaction with medical care would be determinants of quality of life. 134 persons were investigated, and the analysis was based on Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). A model with two quality of life variables, General quality of life and Security, fitted the data best. A self-variable, Sense of self, and Satisfaction with daily activities, Psychopathology, and Satisfaction with medical care served as mediators and explained the variation in the quality of life variables. External to the mediators, and related to these, were Activity level, Educational level, and Independent living. In conclusion, a self-variable showed the strongest association with quality of life, but two aspects that should be feasible to influence in mental health care, daily activity and medical care, contributed to the subjects' self-rated quality of life. These results render a somewhat optimistic view on how to accomplish a better self-perceived quality of life among people with severe mental illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mona Eklund
- Department of Health Sciences, Division of Occupational Therapy, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.
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14
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Bengtsson-Tops A, Hansson L, Sandlund M, Bjarnason O, Korkeila J, Merinder L, Nilsson L, Sørgaard KW, Vinding HR, Middelboe T. Subjective versus interviewer assessment of global quality of life among persons with schizophrenia living in the community: A Nordic multicentre study. Qual Life Res 2005; 14:221-9. [PMID: 15789956 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-004-3926-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Few studies have investigated differences between subjective and externally assessed quality of life in individuals with a severe mental illness. In a sample of 387 patients with schizophrenia living in the community the present study investigated the association between subjective and interviewer-rated quality of life, clinical and sociodemographic factors related to the two assessments, and if discrepancies in the assessments were related to any clinical or social features of the patients. METHOD The study was a Nordic multicentre study with a cross-sectional design. Instruments used were the Lancashire Quality of Life Profile, the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale, the Interview Schedule for Social Interaction, Camberwell Assessment of Needs and General Assessment of Functioning. RESULTS The correlation between subjective and interviewer-rated quality of life was moderate (ICC = 0.33). More severe affective symptoms, fewer emotional relations and a lower monthly income were related to poorer subjectively rated quality of life but in a stepwise multiple regression analysis accounted for only 14.1% of the variance. Poorer interviewer-rated quality of life was mainly related to a more severe psychopathology but also to a lower monthly income, fewer emotional relations and not being employed. Together these factors accounted for 45.5% of the variance. A greater discrepancy between the subjective and the interviewer rating was found in patients with less affective symptoms, unemployment, and a better social network. CONCLUSION Only a moderate correlation between subjective and interviewer-assessed global quality of life was found, implying that the sources of assessment differed, as was also shown in subsequent regression models. It is concluded that both perspectives on the patient's quality of life may be valuable for treatment planning, especially in cases where differences in quality of life assessment related to the patient's psychopathology may be expected.
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15
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Lindstedt H, Söderlund A, Stålenheim G, Sjödén PO. Personality traits as predictors of occupational performance and life satisfaction among mentally disordered offenders. Nord J Psychiatry 2005; 59:357-64. [PMID: 16757464 DOI: 10.1080/08039480500320082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The study investigated to what extent personality traits, e.g. socialization, proneness for anxiety, aggression and hostility were associated with and predictive of self-reported and observed occupational performance and perceived life satisfaction among male mentally disordered offenders (MDOs). Also, subjects with psychopathic-related personality traits were compared with subjects without such traits regarding demographic data and dependent variables. The MDOs were included from the Swedish National Board of Forensic Medicine. A total of 55 subjects were visited at their hospital ward for data collection with the Karolinska Scales of Personality (KSP), Capability to Perform Daily Occupation (CPDO), Allen Cognitive Level Screen (ACLS) and the Manchester Quality of Life Scale (MANSA). Seven KSP scales and two KSP factors correlated significantly with the dependent variables. Regression analyses revealed that the KSP Socialization scale, the KSP Anxiety-proneness and Psychopathy factors were the most important predictors. Subjects with psychopathy differed from remaining groups by having more conduct disorders before 15 years, being more often brought up in outcasted families and less subjected to measures of pupil welfare activities. The life history was concluded to be important influencing occupational performance and life satisfaction. Subjects with high anxiety proneness should be given attention in treatment planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Lindstedt
- Department of Public Health and Caring Sciences, Section of Caring Sciences, Uppsala University, Sweden.
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16
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Jarbin H, Hansson L. Adult quality of life and associated factors in adolescent onset schizophrenia and affective psychotic disorders. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 2004; 39:725-9. [PMID: 15672293 DOI: 10.1007/s00127-004-0804-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/11/2004] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Subjects in treatment for affective disorders are usually less satisfied with life compared to subjects with schizophrenia. AIMS The aims of this study were to compare subjective quality of life (QoL) at adult age of adolescent onset psychotic disorders and analyse associated factors. METHOD Fifty-three patients with adolescent onset psychotic disorders were followed up at age 25, diagnostically re-evaluated according to the DSM-IV and assessed with the Positive and Negative Symptoms Scale, the Strauss-Carpenter Scale and the Lancashire Quality of Life Profile. RESULTS Subjects diagnosed with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder (n = 27) experienced significantly lower overall QoL than subjects with psychotic mood disorders (n = 26). Overall QoL was strongly associated to depressed mood (R2 = 0.49) in the schizophrenia group and to degree of employment (R2 = 0.39) in the mood disordered group. CONCLUSION Depression is a major concern in the evaluation and treatment of patients with schizophrenia, while vocational support seems particularly important after an episode of psychotic mood disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Håkan Jarbin
- Dept. of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, County Hospital, 30185 Halmstad, Sweden.
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17
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Eklund M, Bäckström M, Hansson L. Personality and self-variables: important determinants of subjective quality of life in schizophrenia out-patients. Acta Psychiatr Scand 2003; 108:134-43. [PMID: 12823170 DOI: 10.1034/j.1600-0447.2003.00103.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate factors determining severely mentally ill patients' self-rated quality of life. The study hypothesized that objective life circumstances, personality, self-variables, and psychopathology would be determinants of quality of life. METHOD A total of 117 individuals with schizophrenia and related disorders were investigated. Structural equation modelling was used to: 1). investigate if one or more subfactors best described the covariance within each potential determinant and quality of life, 2). explore the relations between all variables and factors extracted in step 1. RESULTS A multi-factorial model indicated that a self-factor and two psychopathology factors worked as mediators of self-rated quality of life, in turn composed of an internal and an external aspect. Personality dimensions and objective life circumstances accounted directly or indirectly for substantial parts of quality of life. CONCLUSION The relative importance of individual characteristics and objective indices was shown. Trait-like properties, such as the self-factor and personality, explained most of the variation in self-rated quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Eklund
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Occupational Therapy, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.
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18
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Hansson L, Middelboe T, Sørgaard KW, Bengtsson-Tops A, Bjarnason O, Merinder L, Nilsson L, Sandlund M, Korkeila J, Vinding HR. Living situation, subjective quality of life and social network among individuals with schizophrenia living in community settings. Acta Psychiatr Scand 2002; 106:343-50. [PMID: 12366468 DOI: 10.1034/j.1600-0447.2002.02346.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the relationships between characteristics of the living situation in the community and subjective quality of life and social network among community-based individuals with schizophrenia. METHOD A total of 418 individuals with schizophrenia from 10 sites were interviewed with regard to quality of life, psychopathology, social network and needs for care. Characteristics of the living situation investigated were: living alone or not, living with family or not, and having an independent or a sheltered housing situation. RESULTS An independent housing situation was related to a better quality of life concerning living situation and living with the family to a better quality of life concerning family relations. An independent housing situation was associated with a better social network regarding availability and adequacy of emotional relations. CONCLUSION People with schizophrenia with an independent housing situation have a better quality of life associated with more favorable perceptions of independence, influence, and privacy. Their social network is better irrespective of whether they live alone or not, or with family or not.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Hansson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Psychiatry, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.
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Gaite L, Vázquez-Barquero JL, Borra C, Ballesteros J, Schene A, Welcher B, Thornicroft G, Becker T, Ruggeri M, Herrán A. Quality of life in patients with schizophrenia in five European countries: the EPSILON study. Acta Psychiatr Scand 2002; 105:283-92. [PMID: 11942933 DOI: 10.1034/j.1600-0447.2002.1169.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare subjective quality of life (QOL) and objective QOL indicators in patients with schizophrenia from five European sites: Amsterdam, Copenhagen, London, Santander and Verona. METHOD A representative sample of 404 patients with schizophrenia, in contact with mental health services, was randomly selected and evaluated with the Lancashire Quality of Life Profile (EU). RESULTS The level of satisfaction in certain domains, religion, family and social relations appears to be associated with local style of living and culture while work, finances, and safety were more independent from local variations. In addition to the severity of symptoms, frequency of contacts with family, friendship and age appear as predictors of QOL, all of them influenced by the characteristics of the surroundings. CONCLUSION The centres participating in the study presented differences in subjective measures of QOL, objective indicators and also in service provision and styles of living.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Gaite
- Clinical and Social Psychiatry Research Unit, Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital 'Marqués de Valdecilla', Cantabria University, Santander, Spain.
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Björkman T, Hansson L. Predictors of improvement in quality of life of long-term mentally ill individuals receiving case management. Eur Psychiatry 2002; 17:33-40. [PMID: 11918991 DOI: 10.1016/s0924-9338(02)00621-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
One hundred and thirteen long-term mentally ill clients receiving case management were investigated with regard to psychosocial and clinical predictors of changes in subjective quality of life during an 18-month follow-up. Better psychosocial functioning and fewer psychiatric symptoms at baseline predicted a greater improvement in quality of life. A larger decrease in symptom severity and a greater improvement in the social network during the follow-up were identified as the most important predictors of a greater improvement in subjective quality of life. The results of the study suggest that an emphasis should be put on effective symptom management, a reduction of needs for care and social support in order to fulfill the aims of improving subjective quality of life in patients receiving case management.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Björkman
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Psychiatry, University Hospital, SE-221 85 Lund, Sweden
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Hansson L, Eklund M, Bengtsson-Tops A. The relationship of personality dimensions as measured by the temperament and character inventory and quality of life in individuals with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder living in the community. Qual Life Res 2001; 10:133-9. [PMID: 11642683 DOI: 10.1023/a:1016790230228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The influence of personality factors on the appraisal of subjective quality of life in individuals with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder is not much investigated. The present study examined this relationship in a sample of 104 patients living in the community. The temperament and character inventory was used to assess personality and the Lancashire quality of life profile was used to assess quality of life. The results showed that lower levels of harm avoidance and higher levels of self-directedness were significantly correlated to a better subjective quality of life. Regression analyses controlling for psychopathology revealed that a higher level of self-directedness was significantly associated with a better subjective quality in all aspects measured and explained the variance in the latter in the range of 4-12%. It is concluded that personality factors are involved in severely mentally ill individuals' assessment of their quality of life and should be accounted for in evaluations of quality of life assessments. The strength and directions of this influence require further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Hansson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Lund University, Sweden.
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22
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Hansson L, Eklund M, Bengtsson-Tops A. The relationship of personality dimensions as measured by the temperament and character inventory and quality of life in individuals with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder living in the community. Qual Life Res 2001. [PMID: 11642683 DOI: 10.1023/a: 1016790230228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
The influence of personality factors on the appraisal of subjective quality of life in individuals with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder is not much investigated. The present study examined this relationship in a sample of 104 patients living in the community. The temperament and character inventory was used to assess personality and the Lancashire quality of life profile was used to assess quality of life. The results showed that lower levels of harm avoidance and higher levels of self-directedness were significantly correlated to a better subjective quality of life. Regression analyses controlling for psychopathology revealed that a higher level of self-directedness was significantly associated with a better subjective quality in all aspects measured and explained the variance in the latter in the range of 4-12%. It is concluded that personality factors are involved in severely mentally ill individuals' assessment of their quality of life and should be accounted for in evaluations of quality of life assessments. The strength and directions of this influence require further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Hansson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Lund University, Sweden.
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Bengtsson-Tops A, Hansson L. Quantitative and qualitative aspects of the social network in schizophrenic patients living in the community. Relationship to sociodemographic characteristics and clinical factors and subjective quality of life. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2001; 47:67-77. [PMID: 11589337 DOI: 10.1177/002076400104700307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Quantitative and qualitative aspects of the social network were investigated in a sample of 120 schizophrenic out-patients. Sociodemographic and clinical factors as well as subjective quality of life were investigated as to their relationship to the social network. The Interview Schedule for Social Integration (ISSI) was used to assess social network and Lancashire Quality of Life Profile was used to assess subjective quality of life. Psychopathology was measured by BPRS and psychosocial functioning by GAF. The patients reported a significantly worse social network compared to a normal sample both regarding quantitative and qualitative aspects of the network. Almost half of the patients wanted access to more social contacts. Relatives and friends turned out to be the patient's main source of supportive contacts. More severe negative and positive symptoms were related to a worse social network. Support was found for an association between characteristics of the social network, such as satisfaction with social contacts, and quality of life. The results give reason to suggest that the care system should consider the informal caregivers' situation and focus on interventions, which enhance the patient's satisfaction with social contacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Bengtsson-Tops
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, University of Lund, Sweden.
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Gaite L, Vázquez-Barquero JL, Arrizabalaga Arrizabalaga A, Schene AH, Welcher B, Thornicroft G, Ruggeri M, Vázquez-Bourgon E, Pérez Retuerto M, Leese M. Quality of life in schizophrenia: development, reliability and internal consistency of the Lancashire Quality of Life Profile--European Version. EPSILON Study 8. European Psychiatric Services: Inputs Linked to Outcome Domains and Needs. Br J Psychiatry Suppl 2000:s49-54. [PMID: 10945078 DOI: 10.1192/bjp.177.39.s49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This paper, part of the European Psychiatric Services: Inputs Linked to Outcome Domains and Needs (EPSILON) Study, reports the development, reliability and internal consistency of the Lancashire Quality of Life Profile--European Version (LQoLP-EU) in a representative sample of people with schizophrenia from five European sites. METHOD The LQoLP-EU was administered to a total sample of 404 patients to check its internal consistency, and a sub-sample of 294 patients was interviewed a second time within 7-15 days to verify its test-retest reliability. RESULTS Internal consistency of the total domains, perceived QoL scale (Life Satisfaction Scale, LSS) was good at 0.87. Of the nine subjective QoL domains Work and Leisure showed the lowest internal consistency (0.30 and 0.56 respectively), the values of the remaining sub-scales ranging between 0.62 and 0.88. The pooled ICC score for LSS was 0.82, and for the nine subjective QoL domain sub-scales it ranged from 0.61 (Safety) to 0.75 (Living Situation). There were significant differences between the sites in alpha and ICCs for sub-scales, but not for the LSS. CONCLUSION The LQoLP-EU has good internal consistency and reliability in the five European centres.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Gaite
- Clinical and Social Psychiatry Research Unit, University of Cantabria, Santander, Spain
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Lindgren M, Thostrup H, Svann??s M, Fagher B. Felodipine in Patients with Organic Solvent-Induced Chronic Toxic Encephalopathy. Clin Drug Investig 2000. [DOI: 10.2165/00044011-200019040-00004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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Bengtsson-Tops A, Hansson L. Subjective quality of life in schizophrenic patients living in the community. Relationship to clinical and social characteristics. Eur Psychiatry 1999; 14:256-63. [PMID: 10572355 DOI: 10.1016/s0924-9338(99)00173-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The aims of this study were to assess the quality of life among 120 schizophrenic patients who were attending a psychiatric outpatient department and to investigate which socio-demographic and clinical factors influenced their subjective quality of life. Quality of life was assessed by the Lanchashire quality of life profile, social functioning was judged according to the Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) scale, and psychopathology was rated by means of the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS). Both objective and subjective life conditions indicated an impaired quality of life for the patients. The areas of finance and work had the largest proportion of dissatisfied patients. Socio-demographic indicators showed to have a weak influence on the patient's self-assessed quality of life while clinical factors, such as psychopathology, strongly influenced the patient's life satisfaction. It is concluded that there is a need for further emphasise on the clinical, financial, and social interventions for this group of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Bengtsson-Tops
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Division of Psychiatry, University Hospital, 221 85 Lund, Sweden
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Hansson L, Middelboe T, Merinder L, Bjarnason O, Bengtsson-Tops A, Nilsson L, Sandlund M, Sourander A, Sørgaard KW, Vinding H. Predictors of subjective quality of life in schizophrenic patients living in the community. A Nordic multicentre study. Int J Soc Psychiatry 1999; 45:247-58. [PMID: 10689608 DOI: 10.1177/002076409904500403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
As part of a Nordic multi-centre study investigating the life and care situation of community samples of schizophrenic patients the aim of the present part of the study was to examine the relationship between global subjective quality of life and objective life conditions, clinical characteristics including psychopathology and number of needs for care, subjective factors such as satisfaction with different life domains, social network, and self-esteem. A sample of 418 persons with schizophrenia from 10 sites was used. The results of a final multiple regression analysis, explaining 52.3% of the variance, showed that five subjective factors were significantly associated with global subjective quality of life, together with one objective indicator, to have a close friend. No clinical characteristics were associated with global subjective quality of life. The largest part of the variance was explained by satisfaction with health, 36.3% of the variance, and self-esteem, 7.3% of the variance. It is concluded that the actual relationship between objective life conditions and subjectively experienced quality of life still remains unclear. Furthermore, it seems obvious that personality related factors such as self-esteem, mastery and sense of autonomy also play a role in the appraisal of subjective quality of life, which implies that factors like these are important to consider in clinical and social interventions for patients with schizophrenia in order to improve quality of life for these persons.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Hansson
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Lund University, Sweden.
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