A Mixed Methods Approach for Studying Relevant Areas of Functioning in Schizophrenia

The purpose of this study is to describe how a mixed methods approach was used to gain a better understanding of functioning in schizophrenia. A two-phase design was employed. In the first phase, four independent qualitative and quantitative preparatory studies were concurrently carried out to identify areas of convergence. In the second phase, we held a consensus conference with an international panel of experts to explore how these preparatory studies contributed to the final list of areas of functioning in schizophrenia. The data of the preparatory studies were complementary, and the qualitative methodology (i.e., focus groups with patients and families) was the main contributor to the final list. The experience of the conference of experts highlights the importance of the consensus process for capturing a range of cultural differences.