| Abstract: | Abstract This cross-sectional, correlational study examined the relationship between personal empowerment and quality of life among 151 mental health consumers (77 psychosocial clubhouse members and 74 consumer-operated drop-in center participants). This study also evaluated the group differences between empowerment and quality of life. Data collected from face-to-face interviews indicate a positive relationship between personal empowerment and quality of life, with drop-in center participants reporting slightly higher levels of personal empowerment than clubhouse members. Mixed results were found between the two groups with respect to subjective and objective quality of life measures. The results of this study suggest an important association between the ability to make life choices and a mental health consumer's quality of life, especially when high levels of social contact are a part of everyday life. |
