Randomised trial, 2005
Are visual analog scales valid for measuring PMDD symptoms?
Yes. The revised visual analog scale reliably measures PMDD symptoms with consistent results whether women assess symptoms as they happen or from memory.
What they did
Researchers analyzed data from 4 randomized controlled trials (1208 women total) testing paroxetine for PMDD. They compared visual analog scale measurements against another validated measurement scale (PMTS-O) to assess reliability and validity.
What they found
The visual analog scale showed high internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha >0.90). Visual analog scores moderately correlated with PMTS-O scores at baseline (p<0.01). For measuring symptom changes, the two scales were strongly correlated (p<0.01). Results were similar whether symptoms were collected prospectively or retrospectively.
What it means for you
This validates the visual analog scale as a reliable measurement tool for PMDD. Women can report symptoms using this scale and results are trustworthy. However, this is a methodological study about measurement, not about treating PMDD.
1208
women from 4 trials
>0.90
Cronbach's alpha (internal consistency)
p<0.01
correlation between measurement scales
About the study
- Original title
- Validation of a revised visual analog scale for premenstrual mood symptoms: results from prospective and retrospective trials
- Authors
- Steiner M, Streiner DL
- Journal
- Canadian journal of psychiatry. Revue canadienne de psychiatrie
- Year
- 2005
- Study design
- Randomised trial
- Participants
- 1,208
- What was tested
- Not applicable, measurement validation study
- Open access
- Yes
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1177/070674370505000607
Topics
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