Psychometric Evaluation of the Life Orientation Test-Revised in Treated Opiate Dependent Individuals
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
7-1-2010
Description
We examined internal consistency and test-retest reliability of a measure of dispositional optimism, the Life Orientation Test-Revised, in 121 opiate-dependent patients seeking methadone treatment. Internal consistency was adequate at baseline (α=.69) and follow-up (α=.72). Low socioeconomic status and being on disability were significantly associated with reduced internal consistency; ethnic and educational differences approached significance. Test-retest reliability was good (ICC=.72), varying across gender, race, ethnicity, education, employment and income (ICC Range=.24-.85). Criterion validity was strong; the LOT-R was significantly negatively correlated with hopelessness (r=-.65, p<.001) and depression (r=-.60, p<.001). Findings support the use of this measure of optimism and pessimism to assess positive cognitive and emotional attributes and improve treatment strategies for opiate-dependent individuals. Future research should address the measurement and significance of optimism in minority, low socioeconomic status and poorly-educated individuals.
Citation Information
Hirsch, Jameson K.; Britton, Peter C.; and Conner, Kenneth R.. 2010. Psychometric Evaluation of the Life Orientation Test-Revised in Treated Opiate Dependent Individuals. International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction. Vol.8(3). 423-431. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11469-009-9224-2 ISSN: 1557-1874
