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Barthel Index

a form of functional status measurement that includes 10 items assessing an individual’s ability to perform activities of daily living independently. An individual is rated on a point scale regarding the degree of assistance required to perform each item, and the ratings are then combined to yield a total score. [Dorothea W. Barthel, 20th-century U.S. psychologist]

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Psychology term of the day

November 23rd 2024

risk factor

risk factor

a clearly defined behavior or constitutional (e.g., genetic), psychological, environmental, or other characteristic that is associated with an increased possibility or likelihood that a disease or disorder will subsequently develop in an individual. Compare protective factor.