K Axis vs GAF

"A Comparison of the Kennedy Axis V and the Global Assessment of Functioning Scale"

ABSTRACT: In this article, the authors evaluates two brief clinician-scored global assessment instruments used to measure the functioning of adult clients who have a serious mental illness: the Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) Scale and the relatively new Kennedy Axis V (K Axis). Although both instruments are brief and easy to score, the K Axis provides a multi-dimensional evaluation, while the GAF provides a single, unidimensional picture of a client's functioning. Statistical analyses indicated that both instruments had adequate validity and reliability if clinicians using them are sufficiently trained. Correlations between the two instruments were high where expected. Statistically significant differential functioning was found for various subgroups. The K Axis was better able to pinpoint this specific differential functioning. (JOURNAL OF PSYCHIATRIC PRACTICE 2000;6:84-90)

Click Here to View Excerpts of the Article

By:

Jim Higgins, Ed.D.

Chief, Systems Planning, Development, and Evaluation

State of California, Department of Mental Health

1600 9th Street

Sacramento, CA 95814


Click Here to See the Above Abstract of the Article at the Journal of Psychiatric Practice

.

Karen Purvis, MSW

Coordinator, Adult Performance Outcome System

State of California, Department of Mental Health

1600 9th Street

Sacramento, CA 95814


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