The multiple sclerosis work difficulties questionnaire (MSWDQ): development of a shortened scale

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Occupational Health
• Neuroscience

Background:

• The 50-item Multiple Sclerosis Work Difficulties Questionnaire (MSWDQ) is a validated measure of self-reported workplace challenges for people with multiple sclerosis (pwMS).
• Existing measures may not be concise enough for routine clinical use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the second-order factor structure of the MSWDQ.
• To develop a shorter, psychometrically sound version of the MSWDQ for clinical application.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional data from 189 pwMS were analyzed using Confirmatory Factor Analysis.
• Items for the shortened scale were selected based on breadth and psychometric adequacy.
• The final scale, MSWDQ-23, was developed from three identified second-order factors.

Main Results:

• A three-factor second-order model emerged: physical barriers, psychological/cognitive barriers, and external barriers.
• The resulting 23-item scale (MSWDQ-23) demonstrated excellent internal consistency.
• The MSWDQ-23 explained significant variance in reduced work hours, expectations of work withdrawal, reduced work hours, and changes in work type.

Conclusions:

• The MSWDQ-23 is a brief, valid, and reliable measure of workplace difficulties for pwMS.
• It effectively predicts employment outcomes and expectations, making it valuable for clinicians.
• The MSWDQ-23 aids in assessing physical, psychological/cognitive, and external barriers impacting work.