Comparison of spouse and patient personality change judgments following MS onset

This is the first study to estimate the prevalence and predictors of spouse and patient perceptions of global/overall personality change (PC) in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS).

69 clinic patients and their spouses completed parallel measures of perceived PC and semantic differential scales measuring pre-MS and current specific behaviours. We correlated perceived personality changes with the following measures of perceived physical, cognitive, emotional, and social functioning: MS Impact Scale, MS Neuropsychological Questionnaire, Beck Depression Inventory-FastScreen; Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale; Family Questionnaire, McMaster Assessment Device; and Social Provisions Scale.

Spouses and patients reported comparable levels of substantial change. Both associated PC with patient distress, perceived cognitive impairment, spouse distress, and poorer family functioning. Spouse, but not patient, PC ratings predicted severity of physical symptoms and social support. Principal component analysis of semantic differential ratings yielded a Compassionate Empathy component correlating with PC within spouse, but not patient, data.

These partially overlapping potential triggers for spouse and patient PC judgments raise questions about the extent they overlap with clinicians' criteria for PC, since spouses did not link impulsivity with PC. It is also suggested that the initial focus of treatment of PC should focus on partner-agreed changes.