A Narrative Analysis of Resilience and Coping in Persons Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis

A Narrative Analysis of Resilience and Coping in Persons Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis by Mildred C. Alford Ph.D., Ed., Berne International Graduate University, 1998 M.S. Ed., Texas A & M University, Commerce, 1989 B.S., Psychology, University of Houston, 1976 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Health Psychology Walden University June 2017 Abstract Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that affects millions of people. Approximately 85% are diagnosed with progressive-relapsing MS, and most are women. This illness is characterized by clearly defined attacks of worsening neurological function, followed by partial or complete remissions. While there is considerable quantitative literature documenting the progressive symptoms and consequential impact on quality of life, little research has been done to explore the illness narratives of women with MS as they cope with the demands of everyday life. Therefore, the purpose of thisMultiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that affects millions of people. Approximately 85% are diagnosed with progressive-relapsing MS, and most are women. This illness is characterized by clearly defined attacks of worsening neurological function, followed by partial or complete remissions. While there is considerable quantitative literature documenting the progressive symptoms and consequential impact on quality of life, little research has been done to explore the illness narratives of women with MS as they cope with the demands of everyday life. Therefore, the purpose of this narrative analysis was to explore the experience of resilience and coping in women with MS. Using the conceptual framework of positive psychology, seven women diagnosed with MS at least two years prior were interviewed. Riessman’s thematic analysis was used, and the fully formed narratives revealed these themes: life before diagnosis, process of diagnosis, after diagnosis, role of family and caregivers, health challenges, resilience and coping strategies, and presence and effect of positive emotions. Findings are discussed in light of the research on positive psychology strategies that enhance quality of life; and on research with persons who have MS and other chronic illnesses who experience depression, fatigue, pain, the loss of social support and poor selfefficacy. Future studies are encouraged to include longitudinal data to understand how coping and resilience emerge and change over time. These results can contribute to efforts to advocate for quality of life while living with this condition, and will be shared with those who are diagnosed with MS, with their families through local and national MS societies, and with professional audiences in scholarly and applied forums. A Narrative Analysis of Resilience and Coping in Persons Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis by Mildred C. Alford Ph.D., Ed., Berne International Graduate University, 1998 M.S.Ed., Texas A & M University, Commerce, 1989 B.S., Psychology, University of Houston, 1976 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy