Illness self-concept in MS
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Illness Self-Concept in Multiple Sclerosis: A Longitudinal Study of Illness Acceptance and Quality of Life
IRAS ID
277719
Contact name
John M. Harvey
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Swansea University
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 3 months, 1 days
Research summary
This research proposal seeks to explore the how people adjust to living with a chronic health condition like Multiple Sclerosis (MS)/Clinically Isolated Syndrome (CIS), and the impact this has on their perceived self-concept and health-related quality of life. The first two years following a diagnosis are crucial in how a person adjusts to living with their diagnosis. The onset of MS/CIS is mainly confined to the period of early adulthood, which is associated with people defining an adult identity, where future aspirations, study, career choices, and where family and relationships are made. A diagnosis of MS/CIS interferes with this process of identity change by negatively changing life priorities, plans, social roles, and health-related quality of life. However, we do not know much about this process. Therefore, the study will explore to see if a relationship between illness self-concept and the adjustment process exists over time. Additionally, we wish to explore how psychological models of health behaviour may explain, and how coping strategies may help an individual adjust to living with a chronic health condition like MS/CIS.
To be eligible for this quantitative study, individuals will be a minimum of 3-months post diagnosis of MS/CIS and a maximum of 24-months post diagnosis. Participants will be asked to complete a set of questionnaires at three different timeframes over a 9-month period. Potential participants will be recruited from the neurology clinic at Morriston Hospital (Swansea Bay University Health Board), with the consultant neurologists writing to their patients who meet the inclusion criteria. The study is expected to recruit for eighteen months, and last for twenty-seven months. Along with the questionnaire pack, participants will be expected to complete a demographics form. The study has the potential to suggest further work involving interventions to minimise the emotional distress caused at this critical time.REC name
East of England - Cambridge Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
20/EE/0221
Date of REC Opinion
18 Sep 2020
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion