Emotion regulation in multiple sclerosis
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Date
03/07/2018Author
Radlak, Bogumila
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Abstract
Introduction: The objective of this thesis was to examine aspects of emotion regulation in
Multiple Sclerosis (MS). A systematic review was carried out of studies investigating the
prevalence of alexithymia in individuals with MS, and its relationship with anxiety and
depression. An empirical study was conducted to explore whether there were differences in
emotion regulation abilities in individuals with different variants of MS, compared to healthy
individuals.
Methods: Twelve journal articles were identified via systematic search utilising predefined
criteria. Seventy nine individuals with relapsing-remitting type of MS, and 38 individuals with
chronic progressive type of MS were recruited to the empirical study. Participants filled in self-report
questionnaires measuring difficulties in emotion regulation, illness severity, illness
representations and quality of life. Also, 55 healthy volunteers took part in the current study.
Results: The estimate of prevalence of alexithymia in MS was approximately twice as high as
in general population. Positive relationships between alexithymia and/or anxiety and
depressive symptoms were found. Those with MS reported difficulties accepting emotional
distress which, to some extent, were predicted by strong illness identity and negative emotional
responses to having MS. These findings were independently of illness severity, and type of
MS. Perceptions of negative consequences of MS were the only partial mediator of the
relationship between illness severity and quality of life.
Conclusions: Larger and more representative samples are needed to clarify the impact of
alexithymia on the clinical presentations of patients with MS. Psychological interventions
targeting non-acceptance of emotional distress and negative illness perceptions are warranted
to support those with MS.