Exploring the relationships between psychological flexibility, intrinsic motivation, and health-promoting behaviors among people with multiple sclerosis

Yerkin, Madina

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/120539 Copy

Description

Title

Exploring the relationships between psychological flexibility, intrinsic motivation, and health-promoting behaviors among people with multiple sclerosis

Author(s)

Yerkin, Madina

Issue Date

2023-04-24

Director of Research (if dissertation) or Advisor (if thesis)

Chiu, Chung-Yi

Committee Member(s)

• Chin, Jessie
• Gao, Xiaotian

Department of Study

Kinesiology & Community Health

Discipline

Community Health

Degree Granting Institution

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Degree Name

M.S.

Degree Level

Thesis

Keyword(s)

• multiple sclerosis
• psychological flexibility
• intrinsic motivation
• health-promoting lifestyle.

Abstract

Background: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an unpredictable and a progressive central nervous system disorder. People with MS experience high levels of anxiety and stress, which significantly deteriorates their quality of life. Psychological flexibility (PF) can help relieve these symptoms, and along with medical treatment, it is recommended to engage in health-promoting behaviors. Intrinsic motivation is a key to maintain healthy behaviors for the long term because physical and cognitive abilities may worsen as the disease progresses. It is essential to understand how psychological flexibility can support intrinsic motivation and to what extent intrinsic motivation can support various health-promoting behaviors. Methods: One hundred and thirty eight individuals with MS reported their sociodemographic characteristics and completed an online self-reported survey assessing their psychological flexibility, intrinsic motivation, and health-promoting lifestyle. Results: Findings suggest that some domains psychological flexibility are significantly related to intrinsic motivation. Intrinsic motivation is significantly correlated with health-promoting behaviors. When evaluating the contributors of health-promoting behaviors, positive affect (PF) and intrinsic motivation were consistent predictors. Perceived disability level, gender, and race must be considered when assessing the frequency of engaging in health-promoting behaviors. Conclusion: Results suggest that some psychological flexibility domains and intrinsic motivation play a key role in promoting healthy lifestyles among people with MS. Further research is needed to provide more nuanced insights into the relationships between variables.

Graduation Semester

2023-05

Type of Resource

Thesis

Copyright and License Information

Copyright 2023 Madina Yerkin

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