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Metamemory in multiple sclerosis: exploring affective and executive contributors.
John J Randolph1, Peter A Arnett, Pamela Freske
1Department of Psychiatry-DHMC, Dartmouth Medical School, One Medical Center Dr., Lebanon, NH 03756-0001, USA. john.randolph@dartmouth.edu
Summary
Metamemory in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients is linked to executive function and depression. Addressing depression and depressive attitudes may improve memory perception and quality of life in MS.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
Background:
- Metamemory research has explored neurological groups, but not collectively examined affective and cognitive factors in multiple sclerosis (MS).
- Understanding metamemory in MS is crucial for improving patient well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the affective and cognitive contributors to metamemory in a sample of 48 multiple sclerosis patients.
- To explore the relationships between executive functioning, depression, depressive attitudes, and self-reported memory complaints.
Main Methods:
- Participants completed the Memory Functioning Questionnaire (MFQ).
- Measures of depression, depressive attitudes, and executive functioning were administered.
- Correlational analyses and structural equation modeling (SEM) were used to analyze data.
Main Results:
- Metamemory aspects in MS were associated with affective and executive variables.
- SEM revealed that executive dysfunction and depression predicted memory complaints, mediated by depressive attitudes.
- An objective basis for memory complaints (executive dysfunction) exists, but is exacerbated by depression.
Conclusions:
- Metamemory complaints in MS have both objective (executive dysfunction) and subjective (depression, depressive attitudes) components.
- Treating depression and depressive attitudes may enhance memory perception accuracy in MS patients.
- Improving metamemory accuracy can potentially enhance the quality of life for individuals with MS.