Subjective life satisfaction and objective living conditions of patients with schizophrenia in Nigeria.
OBJECTIVE
This study explored life satisfaction among patients with schizophrenia in Nigeria and its relationship with objective living situation.


METHODS
Adult outpatients (N=99) were assessed with the brief version of the World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale. They also rated aspects of their objective living situation corresponding to the satisfaction items.


RESULTS
In contrast to their poor living conditions, most patients expressed a high level of life satisfaction. Items with the highest scores included satisfaction with self, "life meaningful," "enjoying life," and overall quality of life; items with the lowest scores included personal relationships, transport, money, and capacity to work. Of 12 satisfaction items, only four (sleep, daily living, relationships with individuals of the same gender, and condition of living place) were significantly correlated with objective measures.


CONCLUSIONS
The correlation between subjective life satisfaction and objective living conditions of Nigerian patients with schizophrenia was poor. Efforts to enhance their quality of life should focus on improving work opportunities and transportation options.
Adewuya
Abiodun O
AO
Department of Behavioural Medicine, Lagos State University College of Medicine, PMB 21226, Ikeja, Lagos State 10010, Nigeria. biodunwuya@yahoo.com
Makanjuola
Roger O
RO
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009549:Nigeria; D010549:Personal Satisfaction; D011788:Quality of Life; D012111:Residence Characteristics; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000208:ethnology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires