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Learning Objective 1: realize the developing process of Scale of Taiwanese Caregiver Meaning
Learning Objective 2: understand the reliability and validity of Scale of Taiwanese Caregiver Meaning
Methods: Three hundred (300) caregivers of mentally ill patients were recruited from a psychiatric OPD. The Taiwanese Caregiver Meaning Scale (TCM scale) was applied. Reliability was assessed by internal consistency according to Cronbach’s alpha. The data showed 0.68-0.85 for each subscale. The alpha for the entire scale was 0.84. Data analysis was accomplished by the use of AMOS 7.0 to test the goodness of fit of the measurement model.
Results: The data show that the hypothesized four-factor model did not fit the model well, but after four modifications and the deletion of item 18, the model fit was improved. High correlations were found between three latent variables (caregiving benefit, responsibility, and reflection on life). We have combined these variables as life comprehension. The TCM scale was modified into a two factors instrument of life comprehension and belief in Karma; three sub-factors were under realigned under the factor of life comprehension.
Conclusion:
The Taiwanese Caregiver Meaning scale can be considered a reliable and valid scale for assessing the meaning of caregiving for Taiwanese caregiviers of mentally ill patients.