English publication
Theunissen,
N.C.M., Kaptein, A.A., Koopman, H.M., Vogels, A.G.C., & Wit, J.M. (1999).
Ch. 7: Quality of life in children in a longitudinal perspective:
an exploratory review. In: Theunissen, N.C.M., Health
related quality of life in children. Ph.D. Thesis Leiden University Medical
Center. Ridderkerk, The Netherlands: Ridderprint (ISBN: 90-9013294-5.
Abstract
Objective: This paper explores the time variability of quality of life
(QoL) in children between 0 to 12 years of age. Design: A systematic review
of original studies, with at least two QoL assessments, and published
between 1966 and 1998. The publications were identified from medical and
psychological sources by computerised searches followed by manual selection.
Data synthesis: The 32 selected publications were discussed according
to their general characteristics, QoL assessment, longitudinal QoL research
design and approaches to what changes QoL. Main results: Only two publications
met all QoL assessment requirements (multi-factorial, self-administered,
subjective) as well as longitudinal requirements (clear description of
assessment period, recall period, sample size at end of study, longitudinal
statistics). The approach to change that underlie the 32 publications
can be described as: stable physical health gives stable QoL and changes
in physical health change QoL. This mixed model can not be supported by
current scientific knowledge. Conclusions: More studies are needed that
meet QoL assessment requirements as well as longitudinal requirements.
It should be acknowledged that psychological, social and situational variables
can change QoL as well. Discussion is necessary about what exactly changes
QoL, as this influences the planning of the assessments and guides the
interpretation of changes.
Keywords
quality of life; health related quality
of life; children; paediatric; literature review; longitudinal studies;
follow-up;