Considerable progress has been made in increasing the formal correctness
of outcome research in schizophrenia by employing strict methodologic
standards. However, based on a recent review of the literature, the authors
note that insufficient attention has been directed toward the
meaningfulness of such research. The interest of a particular study derives
from its application beyond the specific patients treated; lack of
attention to meaningfulness encourages the researcher to posit unjustified
or overly generalized conclusions, resulting in the widespread adoption of
questionable treatment strategies or the dismissal of potentially useful
ones. Increased attention to meaningfulness will make the conclusions of
this type of research more valuable, both from pragmatic and theoretical
standpoints.Abstract Teaser