Subjective quality of life in out-patients with schizophrenia: clinical and utilization correlates

The relationship between subjective quality of life (QOL), clinical measures, and service utilization was measured in out-patients with schizophrenia. A total of 72 subjects completed the Quality of Life Interview and were also assessed by means of the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale, a battery of neuropsychological tests, and two measures of social functioning. Use of psychiatric services over a 2-year period was ascertained from comprehensive records. Global subjective QOL was lower than patients' satisfaction with specific life domains. There were few significant correlations between satisfaction with, and objective measures of specific life areas. In a multiple regression, patients' global subjective QOL was inversely related to their scores on the PANSS depression factor, and to the number of psychiatrist out-patient visits.