The relation between goal adjustment, goal disturbance, and mental well-being among persons with multiple sclerosis. Issue 6 (3rd June 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Van Damme, Stefaan; Kindt, Sara; Crombez, Geert; Goubert, Liesbet; Debruyne, Jan
• Is Part Of: Psychology & health. Volume 34:Issue 6(2019)
• Page Start: 645
• Page End: 660
• Publication Date: 2019-06-03
• Subjects: Goal adjustment -- self-regulation -- wellbeing -- multiple sclerosis -- chronic illness; Clinical health psychology -- Periodicals; Attitude to Health -- Periodicals; Public Opinion -- Periodicals; Psychology -- Periodicals; 150
• DOI: 10.1080/08870446.2018.1556272
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0887-0446

Abstract

Abstract: Objective: This study investigated the role of goal adjustment, i.e. disengaging from blocked goals and reengaging into alternative goals, in mental well-being and goal disturbance in persons with multiple sclerosis (MS). Design: A cross-sectional design was used with self-report data from questionnaires and Personal Project Analysis (PPA). Main outcome measures: Dependent variables were mental well-being, indicated by depression/anxiety (HADS; Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale) and mental functioning (SF-36; Short Form Health Survey), and goal disturbance, indicated by goal manageability and goal interference (PPA). Independent variables were patient-reported physical impairment (SF-36) and goal disengagement and reengagement (GAS; Goal Adjustment Scale). Results: Higher goal reengagement was associated with better mental well-being, but unrelated to goal disturbance. Goal disengagement only showed a negative association with anxiety. High disengagement was associated with lower goal interference but only for those also scoring high on reengagement. Goal adjustment did not buffer the effects of physical impairment on mental well-being and goal disturbance. Contrary to expectations, higher goal reengagement increased the association between physical impairment and goal interference. Conclusion: Although goal reengagement is associated with better mental well-being in persons with MS, it might also strengthen the perceived effect of physical impairment on goal interference.