[Methods of mental health assessment in the adult population: psychometric characteristics of the K and L questionnaire].

Abstract

The method was originally conceived as a tool for assessment of mental health of the normal population, not burdened seriously by psychopathological factors, attending the surgeries of doctors engaged in primary health care. The psychometric properties of this tool guarantee, however, that the method can be used also in other areas of psychological care. The questionnaire has two separate versions for the adult population in productive age (K) and for the older population, i.e. retirement age (L). It was tested in large numbers of subjects--1644 men and 2235 women. Factor analysis identified 19 effective items based on their variability, inner consistence and discriminating capacity. Univariance analysis revealed differences between groups of subjects as regards sex and age. The factor matrix supports the hypothesis of a one-dimensional interpretation of both types of data. This conclusion is supported also by values expressing the homogenity of scales. Indices of mental health were further validised with regard to the general adaptability of the personality. Based on the assessed results experimental standards were elaborated for four age groups, separately for men and women.