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Adjustment to multiple sclerosis: application of a stress and coping model
1Behaviour Research and Therapy Center, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia. kenp@psy.up.edu.au
Summary
This study shows that for multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, less disability and using problem-focused coping strategies improve adjustment. Emotion-focused coping was linked to poorer outcomes in MS adaptation.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Health Sciences
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) presents significant challenges impacting patients' quality of life.
- Understanding the psychological factors influencing adaptation to chronic illness is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the utility of a stress and coping model in explaining adjustment to multiple sclerosis (MS).
- To identify predictors of psychological and social adjustment in individuals with MS.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal study with 122 MS patients interviewed at baseline and 12 months later (n=96).
- Assessed stressful life events, illness characteristics, social support, appraisal, and coping strategies.
- Measured adjustment outcomes including depression, distress, social adjustment, and subjective health status.
Main Results:
- Less disability and greater use of problem-focused coping were associated with better adjustment.
- Higher reliance on emotion-focused coping strategies (wishful thinking, self-blame, avoidance) correlated with poorer adjustment.
- Limited evidence found for stress-buffering effects of social support and coping.
Conclusions:
- The stress and coping model provides a useful framework for understanding adaptation to multiple sclerosis.
- Interventions promoting problem-focused coping and managing disability may enhance adjustment in MS patients.