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Performance of the Swedish SF-36 version 2.0
Charles Taft1, Jan Karlsson, Marianne Sullivan
1Health Care Research Unit, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Institute of Internal Medicine, Göteborg University, Göteborg, Sweden. charles.taft@medicine.gu.se
Summary
The Swedish SF-36 version 2.0 demonstrates improved precision, reliability, and validity in role functioning scales. These enhancements are expected to increase the responsiveness of the Short Form 36 (SF-36) health survey.
Area of Science:
- Health Outcomes Research
- Psychometrics
- Cross-cultural Adaptation of Health Measures
Background:
- The Short Form 36 (SF-36) is a widely used health survey.
- Evaluating international versions ensures cross-cultural applicability and performance.
- Modifications to existing instruments require rigorous validation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the psychometric performance of the Swedish SF-36 version 2.0.
- To evaluate the impact of expanded response scales for role functioning scales (RP and RE).
- To confirm reliability and validity in a Swedish population.
Main Methods:
- A national random sample of 3000 Swedish residents (18-75 years) participated.
- Standard psychometric evaluation methods were applied, similar to previous SF-36 versions.
- Data analysis focused on scaling assumptions, reliability, validity, and known-groups comparisons.
Main Results:
- A 73% response rate was achieved.
- Scaling assumptions were met, with improvements noted for role functioning scales.
- Reliability and validity were enhanced, floor/ceiling effects reduced, and factor structure replicated.
- Criterion-based validity confirmed expected differences across physical and mental health domains, age, and risk factors.
Conclusions:
- The revised response formats for role functioning scales improved precision, reliability, and validity.
- The core structure of the SF-36 remains intact.
- These improvements are anticipated to enhance the overall responsiveness of the SF-36 survey.