This volume brings together two parallel fields of interest. One is the
understanding among psychologists and other social scientists of the
limits to psychometric measurement, and the challenges in generating
information about quality of life and wellbeing that enable comparison
across time and place, at both individual and population levels. The
second is the interest among anthropologists and others in the lived
experience of chronic illness and disability, including the
unpredictable fluctuations in perceived health and capability. Chronic
conditions and physical impairments are assumed to impact negatively on
people's quality of life, affecting them psychologically, socially and
economically. While some of these conditions have declined in
prevalence, as a result of prenatal diagnosis, early successful
interventions, and changes in medical technology and surgery, many of
these conditions are on the increase as a consequence of improved
life-saving medication and technology, and greater longevity. 'Quality
of life' is often used as an indicator for successful and high quality
health services, and good access to medical attention and surgery - for
hip replacements or laser surgery to improve vision, for instance. But
it is also used as an argument against interventions, when such
interventions are seen to prolong life for its own sake. Yet we also
know that people vary their idea of quality as a result of the context
of fluctuations in their own health status, the presence or absence of
pain or discomfort, and as a result of variations in social and economic
contextual factors. In exploring these questions, this volume
contributes to emerging debates related to individual health outcomes,
but also to the social and other individual determinants that influence
everyday life. Understanding these broader contextual factors will
contribute to our knowledge of the kinds of services, support systems,
and infrastructure that provide people with good 'quality of life' and a
sense of wellbeing, regardless of their physical health, capability and
functioning. The volume includes scholars from all continents who have
been encouraged to think critically, and to engage with the descriptive,
methodological, social, policy and clinical implications of their work.
