Self-Report Measures in the Assessment of Rheumatoid Arthritis, With an Emphasis on Ecological Validity

Use of self-report measures in medicine is widespread (Pincus, 1995b). In the office setting, a physician may ask the patient to describe symptoms that have recently been experienced. Alternatively, if the physician practices in a research setting, a patient may be asked to complete a symptom questionnaire to assess his or her health in a standardized manner. Interviews and questionnaires are forms of self-report that are essential components of both medical practice and research.