The social functioning of persons with chronic mental illness: An empirical typology of consumers and correlates of social functioning

This study examined the typology of consumers and correlates of their socia l functioning using the Social Functioning Scale (SFS). Data were obtained from 244 outpatients of two psychiatric hospitals and psychiatric ward inpa tients in two general hospitals through a structured in-person interview. T he typology was generated using Cluster Analysis, and the profile of each g roup was further examined. The results indicated that there were four disti nct groups of consumers. Multiple regression analysis revealed that consume rs' sex, age, education, diagnosis, behavioral problems, family caregivers' age, employment status, and overall social support were significantly asso ciated with consumers' social functioning. The implications for previous re search findings and psychiatric rehabilitation service are discussed.