A multidimensional measure of participation for adults with serious mental illnesses

Purpose: The aims of this study were to (1) construct a multidimensional measure of participation (the Community Participation Domains Measure (CPDM)) based on a conceptual model of participation and (2) test the construct validity of the CPDM in adults with serious mental illnesses (SMI). Methods: The sample consisted of 235 adults with SMI who completed the Temple University Community Participation Measure (TUCP), Community Participation Indicators (CPIs), Colorado Symptom Index (CSI), along with other scales. A conceptual model, descriptive analysis and expert reviews were employed to select a subset of items to include in the measure. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and Rasch analysis were used to test the item and model fit for each scale. Results: Based on the conceptual model, the items of the CPDM were divided into three domains: Productive Activities, Social Participation and Recreation/Leisure. This 3-factor model showed good model-fit (CFI=0.940, TLI=0.933, RMSEA=0.048) in CFA and good item-fit in Rasch analysis. Conclusions: The CPDM is a validated measure that can be used to assess levels of participation in adults with SMI. ▸ Implications for Rehabilitation • Participation is an important goal and rehabilitation outcome indicator for individuals with serious mental illnesses (SMI). • Participation is a multidimensional concept, which includes three distinct domains: Productive Activities, Social Participation and Community Activities. • The Community Participation Domains Measure (CPDM) is a valid measure that can be used to assess the multidimensional construct of participation in adults with SMI.