M. Bruijinzeels|M. Foets|J. van der wounder|A Prins|Wilco van den Heuvel
Measuring morbidity of children in the community: a comparison of interview and diary data
Erasmus University Rotterdam|Zorginstituut Nederland|Erasmus University Rotterdam|Erasmus University Rotterdam|University of Groningen
little known validity estimates morbidity experienced homein dutch national survey morbidity interventions general practice mothers 1630 children answered health interview kept health diary 3 weeks first 2 weeks used childrens symptoms recorded interview using check list monitored health diary openended questionsin interview parents reported symptoms 65 children diary 54 children ear problems colds fever weakness anxiety reported often interview mothers mental health assessed general health questionnaire scoring 4 assessed impaired mental health parents reported symptoms children interview 81 diary 65 similar reference periods least educated mothers reported fewer children symptoms diary 45 interview 66 highly educated mothers reported similarly diary 67 interview 70both data collection methods yield different estimates community morbidity explanations telescoping seriousness symptoms amount psychological distress respondent forgetfulness literacy limitations discussed recommend diaries used less educated populations