Factor analysis and validation of the General Health Questionnaire in men: a general practice survey

Area of Science:

• Psychological assessment
• Mental health screening

Background:

• The General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) is a widely used screening tool for detecting psychological distress.
• Validation studies are crucial to ensure the reliability and applicability of assessment instruments across different populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a factor analysis and validation study of the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) in a sample of adult men.
• To compare the performance of the GHQ in men with existing data from women to identify potential sex differences.

Main Methods:

• A survey was administered to 1011 men aged 20-60 years.
• Factor analysis was employed to examine the underlying structure of the GHQ.
• The GHQ's performance in men was compared to that in a similar group of women.

Main Results:

• Three clinically relevant factors were identified within the GHQ.
• Factor analysis did not significantly improve the overall utility of the GHQ.
• Significant sex differences were observed in how men and women responded to the GHQ.

Conclusions:

• While three factors were identified, factor analysis offered limited enhancement to the GHQ's value in this male cohort.
• The General Health Questionnaire may function as a less satisfactory screening instrument for men compared to women.
• Further research is warranted to refine or develop alternative screening tools for mental health in men.