10
DISCUSSION
The high correlations of MANSA and LQLP scores suggest a concurrent validity for the
MANSA in addition to a face and construct validity. Internal consistency of satisfaction
ratings seems reasonable, and associations with psychopathology are in line with results
for the LQLP reported in the literature (Kaiser et at. 1997; Priebe et al. 1998a,b). Thus, the
MANSA appears a viable and valid instrument to obtain condensed and accurate quality of
life data, and it is brief enough to be included in a minimum data set.
It should be taken into account, however, that the MANSA shares conceptual and
methodological limitations with the LQLP and other similar instruments. Although it assesses
some objective indicators of quality of life, its focus is clearly on subjective ratings. The
underlying concept of quality of life is a generic and not a disease specific one. All questions
allow comparisons with the general population, and are not specifically illness or symptom
related. If in research or routine evaluation the interest is in more specific symptom-related
measures, other scales should be used in addition to or instead of the MANSA. The same
holds true if other related but nevertheless distinct constructs such as social functioning are to
be assessed.
In evaluative studies, psychopathology should be assessed and controlled for as an
influential factor. Mean satisfaction scores may serve as a non-specific outcome criterion.
Satisfaction ratings with single life domains should be used for testing domain specific and a
priori stated hypotheses, and for generating such hypotheses if mean scores reveal significant
differences.
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