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Perceptions of Links Between Quality of Life Areas: Implications for Measurement and Practice

Martin, Faith

Authors

Faith Martin



Abstract

Quality of life (QoL) measures frequently conceptualise QoL as having distinct life domains. However, research suggests that there may be overlap. In this study, perceptions of links between life areas are explored. At time one, 143 participants in Khon Kaen, Thailand completed the "Global Person Generated Index" (GPGI), nominating up to five areas important to QoL. Participants then described why they perceived areas as important. Frequencies of links mentioned between areas were recorded. At time two, 42 participants completed the GPGI and were then asked to visually represent the areas of life with circles, overlapping, containing other circles or unconnected to show the interrelationships. Descriptions of the life areas often spontaneously included links with other life areas. "Money" was the most commonly linked area, followed by "job or work" and family. Diagrams representing the relationships between life areas showed diversity. All participants linked at least one area. About 26% presented at least one area as independent. Participants in this sample generally viewed their QoL as composed of some inter-related areas. This has implications for QoL measurement, suggesting data to capture inter-relating domains should be collected. The use of a mixed methods approach to understanding QoL is recommended. Implications for practice are also highlighted, as interventions aimed at one area of QoL will likely impact on others, in ways we currently do not measure. © 2011 Springer Science+Business Media B.V.

Journal Article Type Article
Acceptance Date Jan 23, 2011
Online Publication Date Feb 3, 2011
Publication Date Mar 1, 2012
Deposit Date Sep 18, 2019
Journal Social Indicators Research
Print ISSN 0303-8300
Electronic ISSN 1573-0921
Publisher Springer Verlag
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 106
Issue 1
Pages 95-107
DOI https://doi.org/10.1007/s11205-011-9795-8
Keywords Arts and Humanities (miscellaneous); Sociology and Political Science; General Social Sciences; Developmental and Educational Psychology
Public URL https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/3069807

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