Abstract
Item non-response is a potential threat to the validity of study results. Taking the somatisation subscale of the SCL-90-R as an example, we hypothesise a specific response pattern ("checklist-effect") that is characterised by symptom-free persons not checking the "not at all"-category. The present study analyses the extent and relevance of this postulated "checklist-effect". Our data is derived from a survey of n = 228 blue-collar workers who previously had filed applications for medical rehabilitation benefits (A1-study), and two additional surveys as well. We defined the "checklist-effect" by the following response pattern: (1) at least one missing value and (2) at least one valid item response and (3) no "not at all"-responses. Occurrence of the "checklist-effect" in the three datasets differed widely. 75% of the responders in the A1-Study had complete data, 16.2% a postulated "checklist-effect". Imputation of missing values under the assumption of a "checklist-effect" led to a reduction of missing data in the somatisation-subscale from 12.3% to 0.4%. Ignoring the "checklist-effect" would overestimate the symptom level. Possible explanations for the effect are discussed. However, the validity of this effect has yet to be proven via methodological studies.
Translated title of the contribution | Missing data in the somatisation Subscale of the SCL-90-R due to a 'checklist effect': Occurrence in different surveys and results of various imputation methods |
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Original language | German |
Journal | Gesundheitswesen |
Volume | 67 |
Issue number | 2 |
Pages (from-to) | 155-158 |
Number of pages | 4 |
ISSN | 0941-3790 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 02.2005 |