Determinants and Pathway Analysis of Posttraumatic Growth in Autoimmune Disorders
Overview
This study identifies fear of disease progression as a significant factor positively associated with posttraumatic growth (PTG) in patients with autoimmune diseases. The findings highlight the mediating roles of social support, patient-reported disease activity, and avoidance coping in this relationship.
Background
Autoimmune diseases (ADs) are chronic conditions that impose significant psychological stress on patients, often leading to anxiety and depression. Understanding posttraumatic growth (PTG) in this population is crucial, as it can enhance treatment adherence and improve quality of life. Identifying factors that promote PTG can inform clinical practices aimed at improving psychological adaptation in patients with ADs.
Data Highlights
Measure
Score
Posttraumatic Growth Total Score
52.20 ± 13.87
Key Findings
Fear of disease progression is directly positively associated with posttraumatic growth (β = 0.290).
The structural equation model accounted for 49.3% of the variance in posttraumatic growth.
Three significant mediating pathways were identified: fear of disease progression → social support → posttraumatic growth; fear of disease progression → patient-reported disease activity → posttraumatic growth; and fear of disease progression → avoidance coping → posttraumatic growth.
Fear of disease progression accounted for 68.7% of the total effect on posttraumatic growth.
Mediating effects via resignation coping and illness perception were not statistically significant.
Clinical Implications
Clinicians should assess and address patients' fears regarding disease progression to foster posttraumatic growth. Strengthening social support systems and guiding patients to reduce avoidance coping can enhance psychological adaptation. These strategies may improve overall treatment outcomes and quality of life for patients with autoimmune diseases.
Conclusion
The study underscores the importance of fear of disease progression in promoting posttraumatic growth among patients with autoimmune disorders. Addressing psychological factors in clinical practice can facilitate better patient outcomes.
