Social identity in people with multiple sclerosis: a meta-synthesis of qualitative research. Issue 4 (4th November 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: B. Barker, Alex; das Nair, Roshan; B. Lincoln, Nadina; Hunt, Nigel
• Is Part Of: Social care and neurodisability. Volume 5:Issue 4(2014)
• Page Start: 256
• Page End: 267
• Publication Date: 2014-11-04
• Subjects: Neurosciences -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Neurobehavioral disorders -- Care -- Periodicals; Neurobehavioral disorders -- Law and legislation -- Periodicals; 340.19
• DOI: 10.1108/SCN-05-2014-0009
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2042-0919

Abstract

<abstract> <title> <x content-type="archive" xml:space="preserve">Abstract</x> </title> <sec> <title content-type="abstract-heading">Purpose</title> <p> – Many aspects of the self are lost as a consequence of having multiple sclerosis (MS). A person's identity can be altered by negative self-concepts, which are associated with poor psychological wellbeing and can lead individuals to reconstruct their sense of self. The Social Identity Model of Identity Change argues that previously established identities form a basis of continued social support, by providing grounding and connectedness to others to facilitate the establishment of new identities. Family support is a salient factor in adjustment to MS and may enable the establishment of new identities. The purpose of this paper is to investigate identity reconstruction following a diagnosis of MS. </p> </sec> <sec> <title content-type="abstract-heading">Design/methodology/approach</title> <p> – A meta-synthesis of the qualitative literature was conducted to examine the relationship between identity change and family identity of people with MS and other family members. </p> </sec> <sec> <title content-type="abstract-heading">Findings</title> <p> – In all, 16 studies were identified that examined identity change and the family following a diagnosis of MS. Coping strategies used by people with MS and their wider family groups, affect the reconstruction of people's identity and the adjustment to MS. Receiving support from the family whilst a new identity is constructed can buffer against the negative effects of identity loss. </p> </sec> <sec> <title content-type="abstract-heading">Practical implications</title> <p> – The family base is strengthened if MS-related problems in daily life are adapted into the individual and family identity using positive coping styles. </p> </sec> <sec> <title content-type="abstract-heading">Originality/value</title> <p> – This review provides an interpretation and explanation for results of previous qualitative studies in this area.</p> </sec> </abstract>