What explains high life satisfaction in men living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy? A preliminary study to inform psychological intervention.

INTRODUCTION: There are increasing numbers of men with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (mDMD). For those who struggle to live with the condition, psychological interventions may be helpful. However, it is unclear how these should be tailored for mDMD. To inform intervention, this study assessed whether 2 well-validated psychological models (Leventhal's Self-Regulatory Model; Psychological Flexibility Model) could explain variation in life satisfaction (LS).

METHODS: Sixteen mDMD, aged 18-43 years, completed an online survey comprised of questionnaire measures of LS, mood, and both psychological models: Illness Perceptions (Leventhal's Self-Regulatory Model); engagement in meaningful activity, and acceptance/awareness of difficult thoughts and feelings (Psychological Flexibility Model). A median split enabled comparison of high and low LS groups.

RESULTS: Those with higher LS were characterized by the ability to undertake personally meaningful activity in acceptance of difficult thoughts and feelings.

CONCLUSIONS: Results supported the Psychological Flexibility Model. However, methodological limitations mean that these findings should be considered preliminary. Muscle Nerve 56: 163-166, 2017.