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Preliminary Evaluation of the Generalized Work Distress Scale in Patients With Work-Related Upper Extremity Disorders

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Abstract

This study evaluated the reliability and construct validity of the Generalized Work Distress Scale in 207 patients attending a specialty clinic with work-related upper extremity disorders. Factor analyses were conducted and compared to the original developmental study confirming a two-factor solution: an internal factor related to Work-Related Dysphoria and an external factor related to Work-Related Support. Reliability (internal consistency) of factors was high (Cronbach’s α = 0.87 and 0.89). The Work-Related Dysphoria factor was more related to self-reported global depressed mood and self-reported upper extremity functional disability, than was Work-Related Support. This study provided preliminary support for the use of this scale in patients with work-related upper extremity disorders and consideration to depressive symptoms in these patients. Further investigation of the psychometric properties of this scale and its predictive validity are required.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division on Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada

    Warren R. Nielson

  2. Beryl and Richard Ivey Rheumatology Day Programs, St. Joseph’s Health Care London, Ontario, Canada

    Warren R. Nielson

  3. Health Research Personnel Development Program, Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, Toronto, Canada

    Joy C. MacDermid

  4. School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

    Joy C. MacDermid

  5. Co-director Hand and Upper Limb Centre Clinical Research Laboratory, St. Joseph’s Health Centre, 268 Grosvenor St., London, Ontario, Canada, N6A 3A8

    Joy C. MacDermid

Authors
  1. Warren R. Nielson
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  2. Joy C. MacDermid
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Correspondence to Joy C. MacDermid.

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Nielson, W.R., MacDermid, J.C. Preliminary Evaluation of the Generalized Work Distress Scale in Patients With Work-Related Upper Extremity Disorders. J Occup Rehabil 15, 3–16 (2005). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10926-005-0869-9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10926-005-0869-9

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