The multidimensional assessment of stressful life events.

This study examined the multidimensionality of life event changes as measured by the widely used Schedule of Recent Events. A factor analysis based on 353 alcohol and drug abuse patients identified six distinct clusters: a) personal and social activities; b) work changes; c) marital problems; d) residence changes; e) family issues; and f) school changes. Significant correlations were found between the six factors and the Cornell Medical Index, measures of psychopathology, demographic characteristics, and alcohol and/or drug-related problems. Advantages of considering the six homogeneous factor scales over the Schedule of Recent Events total score were evident in higher correlations with substantively relevant variables. The six factors provided empirical support for the multidimensional assessment of life event changes. Future research should emphasize the use of multiple scale instruments that provide more specific indices of life changes.