Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #108467

Alexa K. Stuifbergen, PhD, RN, School of Nursing, The University of Texas at Austin, 1700 Red River, Austin, TX 78701, 512-232-4710, astuifbergen@mail.utexas.edu

Many intervention studies are unable to demonstrate changes in outcomes during the study. While insufficient sample sizes, weak treatments, and poor statistical designs can all contribute to lack of measurable change following an intervention, adequacy of measurement is a critical factor in any study. The purpose of this presentation is to describe the use of Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS) methods to supplement existing questionnaire and physiological measures. We have used GAS in two studies (RO1 HD35047 and 2 R01HD35047) to assess response to a lifestyle change intervention for women with chronic disabling conditions of multiple sclerosis (N=113) and fibromyalgia syndrome (N=120). GAS was used with the intervention group that completed an eight-week educational/skill building lifestyle change program and a three-month phone follow-up. At the end of classes, participants identified goals that could be achieved in the next three months. Goals were scaled from -2 (much less than expected) to +2 (much better than expected) outcome. Goal attainment was measured at baseline and at 2 months, 3 ½ months, 5 months and 8 months post baseline. The pattern of goal attainment scores for the MS participants indicated that a majority achieved or exceeded their goal by six weeks post-class. Although there was some decline in scale scores over time, gains were maintained over a six-month post intervention period. Women with fibromyalgia syndrome made progress but experienced lower levels of goal attainment. GAS allowed comparisons across groups and was sensitive to incremental changes common in many intervention studies.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify features of goal attainment scaling that make it a useful method for measuring change in intervention studies.
• Discuss issues related to use of goal attainment scaling and interpretation of findings.
• Develop sample goal attainment statements for measuring change in one health behavior.

Keywords: Health Promotion, Disability

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.

Recorded presentation