Brief Report: The Development and Psychometric Properties of an Observer-rated Measure of Engagement with Mental Health Services

Engagement with mental health services is important if people with serious, long-standing mental health problems are to be adequately supported in the community. However, engagement of this client group is notoriously difficult. While research is needed to address reasons for disengagement, there are no existing measures of the engagement concept. This paper presents the development of an observer-rated, multi-item engagement measure, together with evidence in support of its reliability and validity. The measure is quick and easy to use, with significant clinical and research value.