Relationships of Shame, Guilt, and Self-compassion with Post-traumatic Growth Among Multiple Sclerosis Patients

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is among the most important central nervous system diseases and the most prevalent neurological disease in humans. It is affecting the patient's individual and social performance. Post-traumatic growth (PTG) is the experience of positive personal change due to confrontation with a crisis or traumatic event.

This study aimed to investigate the relationship of shame, guilt, and self-compassion with PTG in MS patients.

In this descriptive correlational study, the statistical population consisted of all MS patients referred to the MS Societies of Zahedan and Mashhad in 2018. Forty-six patients were selected using a convenience sampling method. Data collection tools were the Post-traumatic Growth Inventory, the State of Shame and Guilt Scale, and the Self-compassion scale. Data analyses were carried out using Pearson correlation and stepwise regression analysis.

Shame (r = -0.48, P ≤ 0.00), guilt (r = -0.44, P ≤ 0.002), and both of them (r = -0.49, P ≤ 0.001) were significantly and diversely related to PTG. Also, self-compassion had a significant positive relationship with PTG (r = 0.32, P ≤ 0.01). Stepwise regression analysis indicated that shame and guilt, when entered the equation in the first step, could determine 0.22 of the PTG variance.

It is suggested that educational classes and training workshops be held to promote self-compassion and decrease shame and guilt among MS patients.