Spousal support underlying self-determined physical activity in adults with multiple sclerosis

Identifying motivational factors that facilitate physical activity engagement in adults with multiple sclerosis (MS) is important given beneficial health outcomes. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between physical activity of adults with MS and perceived spousal behaviors underlying self-determination.

One-hundred and twelve individuals with MS completed the Patient Determined Disease Steps, Physical Exercise Self-Efficacy Scale, Spousal Support for Physical Activity Scale, and Godin Leisure-Time Exercise Questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, scale reliabilities, and bivariate correlations were obtained. To examine the influence of perceived spousal behavior on total metabolic equivalents, a regression analysis was conducted.

All subscales were found to be highly reliable. Strong and significant associations between each of the variables and physical activity existed except for that of expectations, social control, and self-efficacy. Physical activity was best predicted by spousal behaviors supporting the self-determination constructs of relatedness, competence, and autonomy (R = 0.49, R²=0.24, F_8,93=2.27, p < 0.05), with spousal support contributing 14.8% to total self-determined physical activity.

Given the significant role of the spouse in fostering intrinsic motivation for physical activity in adults with MS, delivering more partner-oriented and targeted interventions that build relationship, competence and autonomy appear warranted.Implications for RehabilitationPhysical activity offers significant physical and psychological benefit to adults with multiple sclerosis (MS) and can contribute to greater marital satisfaction.Self-determined physical activity of individuals with MS can be facilitated by spouses who support their partner's needs for relatedness, competency, and autonomy.Delivering more partner-oriented and targeted interventions that develop self-determination have the potential to increase physical activity and improve quality of life in those with MS.