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

Background: 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. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the relationship of shame, guilt, and self-compassion with PTG in MS patients. Methods: 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. Results: 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. Conclusions: It is suggested that educational classes and training workshops be held to promote self-compassion and decrease shame and guilt among MS patients.