Factor structure of the Beck Hopelessness Scale in individuals with advanced cancer.
OBJECTIVE
Although the Beck Hopelessness Scale is often used with the seriously ill, its factor structure has been given relatively little consideration in this context.


METHODS
The factor structure of this scale was examined in a sample of 406 ambulatory patients with advanced lung or gastrointestinal cancer, using a sequential exploratory-confirmatory factor analysis procedure.


RESULTS
A two-factor model was consistent with the data: The first factor reflected a negative outlook and was labeled 'negative expectations'; the second factor identified a sense of resignation and was labeled 'loss of motivation.'


CONCLUSIONS
Implications regarding scoring of the scale in this population are discussed, as are implications of the two-factor structure for our understanding of hopelessness in individuals with advanced cancer.
Nissim
Rinat
R
Behavioural Sciences and Health Research Division, Toronto General Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada. rinat.nissim@uhn.on.ca
Flora
David B
DB
Cribbie
Robert A
RA
Zimmermann
Camilla
C
Gagliese
Lucia
L
Rodin
Gary
G
D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003863:Depression / Q000209:etiology / Q000523:psychology; D005163:Factor Analysis, Statistical; D005260:Female; D005770:Gastrointestinal Neoplasms / Q000523:psychology; D006801:Humans; D008175:Lung Neoplasms / Q000523:psychology; D008297:Male; D017533:Marital Status; D008875:Middle Aged; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000523:psychology*; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; D012737:Sex Factors; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000209:etiology / Q000523:psychology; D055815:Young Adult