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Family Functioning and Multiple Sclerosis: Study Protocol of a Multicentric Italian Project
Marialaura Di Tella1, Virginia Perutelli2, Giuseppina Miele3
1Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy.
Abstract:
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory and neurodegenerative disease, which not only affects physical functioning, but is also associated with cognitive impairments and great psychological distress. The combination of those symptoms may have negative consequences on the family functioning of patients with MS, with detrimental effects on both marital relationships and parental bonding. Furthermore, the presence of individual characteristics and of an adequate social support may also contribute to the quality and endurance of family relationships. Particularly, high levels of alexithymia, a personality trait that affects the recognition of a person's own emotions, have been associated with reduced interpersonal communication skills and enhanced anxiety/depressive symptoms. Therefore, the main aim of the present study is to provide an in-depth evaluation of family functioning and related factors in patients with MS and their families. In order to reach this goal, the perceived quality of family functioning, dyadic relationships, and parental bonding will be first investigated. Secondly, the possible associations between the quality of family relationships and the presence of alexithymia, psychological distress, and perceived social support will be examined. Patients with MS and their families who will consent to take part in the study will be asked to provide sociodemographic and clinical information, and to complete a series of questionnaires, presented and uploaded on an online dedicated platform. The final sample will be made up of 300 families, consecutively recruited from the Italian medical centers involved in the project. The results of the present study will shed light on the family functioning of patients with MS, through a comprehensive assessment of the main factors that are associated with family dynamics. A holistic evaluation of those aspects can help clinicians and researchers understand family dynamics in MS population better.
Insights
This study examines family functioning in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients, exploring how alexithymia and psychological distress impact relationships. Findings aim to improve support for MS families.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Psychology
- Family Studies
Background:
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease impacting physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being.
- MS symptoms can negatively affect family dynamics, including marital relationships and parental bonding.
- Individual traits like alexithymia and social support influence family relationship quality in chronic illness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate family functioning in MS patients and their families.
- To investigate the associations between family relationships, alexithymia, psychological distress, and social support.
- To enhance understanding of family dynamics in the MS population for clinical and research applications.
Main Methods:
- Recruitment of 300 families affected by MS from Italian medical centers.
- Collection of sociodemographic and clinical data.
- Administration of questionnaires via an online platform to assess family functioning, dyadic relationships, parental bonding, alexithymia, distress, and social support.
Main Results:
- The study will analyze perceived family functioning, dyadic relationships, and parental bonding.
- Associations between relationship quality and alexithymia, psychological distress, and social support will be examined.
- Results will provide insights into factors influencing family dynamics in MS.
Conclusions:
- This research offers a comprehensive assessment of family functioning in MS.
- Understanding these dynamics can guide interventions and support systems for MS patients and their families.
- The findings will contribute to a holistic view of MS care, integrating family well-being.
