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Updated: Jun 29, 2026
The Multiple Sclerosis Performance Test (MSPT): An iPad-Based Disability Assessment Tool
Published on: June 30, 2014
Development of the benefit finding in multiple sclerosis (MS) caregiving scale: a longitudinal study of relations
Kenneth I Pakenham1, Stephen Cox
1School of Psychology, The University of Queensland, Queensland, Australia. k.pakenham@psy.uq.edu.au
Unlabelled:
Benefit finding (BF) is a meaning-making construct that has been shown to predict carer and care recipient adjustment.
Purpose:
This longitudinal study investigated the dimensions, stability, and validity of the benefit finding in multiple sclerosis caregiving (BFiMSCare) scale.
Methods:
Participants were 232 carers of persons with MS and their care recipients. Questionnaires were completed at Time 1 and 12 months later (Time 2).
Results:
Factor analysis of the BFiMSCare scale revealed six psychometrically sound factors: enriched relationship; spiritual growth; family relations growth; life-style gains; inspiration; and relationship opportunities. Results of regression analyses indicated that the Time 1 BFiMSCare factors and the total score accounted for significant amounts of variance in each of the Time 1 positive adjustment outcomes (life satisfaction, positive affect, dyadic adjustment) and in Time 2 positive affect and dyadic adjustment. The BFiMSCare total score predicted all Time 2 adjustment domains (positive affect, dyadic adjustment, care recipient adjustment ratings of carer) except life satisfaction and distress, whereas the six factors as a block predicted positive affect and life satisfaction.
Conclusions:
Findings delineate the dimensional structure of BF in caregiving and the differential links between BF dimensions and adjustment, and have implications for the measurement of BF.
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