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Conceptual and methodological problems in research on the quality of life in clinical medicine

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  • Siegrist, Johannes
  • Junge, Astrid

Abstract

This introductory paper discusses three issues: theory, validity of measurement and benefits of assessment. It is argued that the conceptual entity 'quality of life' remains ill-defined, although researchers commonly agree on its multi-dimensional nature. The selectivity of dimensions under study is illustrated by referring to recent work on the quality of life in cancer and in cardiovascular disease. Despite conceptual weaknesses, promising developments are apparent in research methodology. The issue is discussed with special reference to the convergent and discriminant validity of some widely used research methods. Improvements in therapy and patient-physician relationships are considered among the major benefits of assessing the quality of life in clinical practice. In conclusion, this field of research, if based on appropriate theory, opens important opportunities for cross-fertilization between advanced medicine and the social sciences.

Suggested Citation

  • Siegrist, Johannes & Junge, Astrid, 1989. "Conceptual and methodological problems in research on the quality of life in clinical medicine," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 29(3), pages 463-468, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:socmed:v:29:y:1989:i:3:p:463-468
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    Cited by:

    1. Anna Lewandowska & Grzegorz Rudzki & Tomasz Lewandowski & Michał Próchnicki & Sławomir Rudzki & Barbara Laskowska & Joanna Brudniak, 2020. "Quality of Life of Cancer Patients Treated with Chemotherapy," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 17(19), pages 1-16, September.
    2. Marie-Christine Taillefer & Gilles Dupuis & Marie-Anne Roberge & Sylvie LeMay, 2003. "Health-Related Quality of Life Models: Systematic Review of the Literature," Social Indicators Research: An International and Interdisciplinary Journal for Quality-of-Life Measurement, Springer, vol. 64(2), pages 293-323, November.
    3. Antonio Tejada & Oscar Rojas, 2005. "Application of an Irt Polytomous Model for Measuring Health Related Quality of Life," Social Indicators Research: An International and Interdisciplinary Journal for Quality-of-Life Measurement, Springer, vol. 74(2), pages 369-394, November.

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