Tinnitus Stages of Change Questionnaire: Psychometric development and validation

Abstract

This study describes the development of the Tinnitus Stages of Change Questionnaire (TSOCQ), which aims to assess the readiness of tinnitus patients to change their behaviors and attitudes in relation to tinnitus. Its ability to predict treatment outcome was also investigated. One hundred and fifty-one patients with tinnitus completed the questionnaire. Through repeated principal component analyses, together with judgments of the factors' theoretical relevance, empirically and clinically meaningful scales were derived. A factor solution in accordance with the transtheoretical model (TTM) and with acceptable psychometric properties was found with the five scales of the TSOCQ labeled Precontemplation (Medical Solution), Precontemplation (Helplessness), Contemplation, Preparation and Action/Maintenance. Participants scoring high on Precontemplation (Helplessness) and low on Action/Maintenance had better treatment outcomes. In conclusion, the TSOCQ had some ability to predict treatment success, but further research is required into the utility of the TTM for understanding the rehabilitation process in tinnitus patients.

Keywords:

• Stages of Change
• tinnitus
• transtheoretical model
• treatment outcome

Acknowledgements

This study was supported by a grant from the Swedish council for working and life research “Psychological treatment via the Internet. Effective components and prediction of outcome”. Mirjam Rahnert, Sofia Renn, Sanna Levin, Jenny Vidarson, and Hans-Christian Larsen are thanked for help with the data collection. Prof. Mats Fredrikson is acknowledged for helpful comments on the manuscript. During the revision process of this manuscript, Professor Jeff Richards sadly passed away. He is missed immensely.