The nature of benefit finding in multiple sclerosis (MS)

Abstract

This study examined the nature of benefit finding in MS and the adequacy of the Benefit Finding Scale (BFS; Mohr et al., 1999) as a comprehensive measure of perceived benefits in MS. A total of 502 people with MS completed questionnaires at Time 1 and 3 months later, Time 2 (n = 404). Data on demographics and illness were collected at Time 1 and qualitative data on benefit finding was obtained at Time 2. Content analyses revealed seven benefit finding themes (personal growth, strengthening of relationships, appreciation of life, new opportunities, health gains, change in life priorities/goals and spiritual growth). Two of the themes were represented by several items on the BFS (personal, relationship growth), three were not reflected by items on the BFS (health, new opportunities, life priorities) and two were represented by one item each (spiritual, life appreciation).

Keywords:

• Benefit finding
• coping
• multiple sclerosis
• adjustment
• quality of life

Acknowledgements

Assistance with recruitment from the MS Society of Victoria and MS Society of Western Australia is greatly appreciated. The study was funded by a grant from The University of Queensland #2000100298.