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Factor Analysis and Validation of the General Health Questionnaire in Men: a General Practice Survey

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 January 2018

P. Hobbs
Affiliation:
Hawkes Bay Hospital Board, Memorial Hospital, Omahu Road, Hastings, New Zealand
C. B. Ballinger
Affiliation:
Dundee Psychiatric Service, Royal Dundee Liff Hospital, Dundee, DD2 5NF
C. Greenwood
Affiliation:
Dundee Psychiatric Service, Royal Dundee Liff Hospital, Dundee, DD2 5NF
B. Martin
Affiliation:
Dundee Psychiatric Service, Royal Dundee Liff Hospital, Dundee, DD2 5NF
A. McClure
Affiliation:
Dundee Psychiatric Service, Royal Dundee Liff Hospital, Dundee, DD2 5NF

Summary

As part of a survey of 1011 men aged 20–60 years, a factor analysis and validation study of the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) was carried out. Three clinically relevant factors could be isolated but factor analysis did not generally enhance the value of the GHQ.

When compared with results for a similar group of women, sex differences in answering the GHQ were found; the GHQ was perhaps a less satisfactory screening instrument in the men.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
Copyright © 1984 The Royal College of Psychiatrists 

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