Adapting the Theory of Care Seeking Behavior to the Clinical Problem of Urinary Incontinence

Abstract

In Brief The purpose of this article is to describe the methodology used to adapt the Theory of Care Seeking Behavior to the clinical problem of urinary incontinence so epidemiologists can consider its framework for researching additional incontinent patient populations. Six focus groups were conducted in the San Francisco/Oakland Bay Area to develop a questionnaire on the perceived likelihood of good or bad outcomes of incontinence care seeking (expectations) and the importance of that outcome (value). We modified Melnyck's Barrier Scale as well. A second set of focus groups was conducted to establish the clarity, comprehensiveness, and acceptability of all survey questions in preparation for a computer-assisted telephone interview. This article describes the methodologic approach to adapting the Theory of Care Seeking Behavior to the clinical problem of urinary incontinence.