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Development of the carer well-being and support (CWS) questionnaire

Purpose – A psychometrically validated measure is needed to evaluate outcomes in carers of people with mental health problems, including dementia. This study aims to develop and validate the Carer well‐being and support questionnaire (CWS).

Design/methodology/approach – Development and evaluation of the measure was conducted in three phases. The authors deconstructed an existing questionnaire (CUES‐C) to produce a long version measure. This was trialed with carers to reduce the number of items and a preliminary evaluation of the psychometric properties of the remaining items was undertaken. A second field test was conducted with the item‐reduced questionnaire measure to evaluate acceptability, reliability and validity.

Findings – The CWS well‐being scale shows moderate acceptability and good reliability and validity. The CWS support scale shows moderate acceptability and good reliability; validity testing for the support scale is limited by the lack of appropriate validating measures.

Practical implications – The CWS is a reliable, valid measure of carer well‐being and support, reflecting important aspects of carers' lives.

Originality/value – This paper provides researchers and practitioners with a tool that can be used to measure and address areas of support for carers. This is important in assessing the effectiveness of new interventions and approaches.

Access source material through DOI
Additional Titles
Mental Health Review Journal

Key Information

Type of Reference
Jour
ISBN/ISSN
1361-9322
Resource Database
Hmic
Publication Year
2012
Issue Number
3
Volume Number
17
Start Page
128-138
Language
English