The constituent structure of subjective memory questionnaires: evidence from multiple sclerosis

Memory. 1995 Jun;3(2):187-200. doi: 10.1080/09658219508258965.

Abstract

A number of different instruments have been devised for investigating individual differences in memory on the basis of subjective reports. One such questionnaire was mailed to individuals on a register of patients with multiple sclerosis, a condition that is known to be associated with objective impairments in cognition and memory. A similar questionnaire was enclosed to be completed about each patient by a close relative. The patients' and relatives' responses were found to share a factor structure identifying memory problems in five areas: receptive communication, route finding, absent-mindedness, face recognition, and expressive communication. These were dominated by a single second-order factor representing a global subjective memory impairment. There were some minor differences between the patients and relatives in their factor scores, but there was generally a high degree of concordance in their responses.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Factor Analysis, Statistical
  • Family
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Memory Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Middle Aged
  • Multiple Sclerosis / psychology*
  • Observer Variation
  • Psychological Tests*
  • Psychometrics*
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Self-Assessment
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • United Kingdom