View article

Reports the development and validation of the Krantz Health Opinion Survey, a measure of preferences for different treatment approaches. This measure yields a total score and 2 relatively independent subscales that measure preferences for information and for behavioral involvement (ie, self-care and active participation) in medical care. The pilot studies with 764 undergraduates and 3 related studies with 230 Ss demonstrated the ability of the subscales or total score to predict with some specificity (a) criterion group membership (clinic users and enrollees in a self-care course),(b) reported use of clinic facilities, and (c) overt behavior (eg, inquisitiveness, self-diagnosis) in a medical setting. Discriminant validity of the instrument was also established. Theoretical implications of the preference constructs are described in terms of personal control; practical implications of the measure are also presented.(34 ref …