Chapter 12 – Developing and Applying the Theory of Psychological Adaptation Needs in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis

Understanding the key components for successful psychological adaptation in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) requires further consideration. Recent review-based research in 2015 has proposed a theory of psychological adaptation needs (TPAN). The theory was derived from literature considering individuals with MS. The five psychological needs proposed within the TPAN include (1) hope in possibility; (2) acknowledgment of an MS-related event and the implications of this for the individual; (3) realizing the need for choice, independence, dignity, and purpose; (4) acting on the need for choice, independence, dignity, and purpose; and (5) psychological needs of character. While an outline of these needs is proposed within the TPAN, a conceptual analysis of each of five psychological needs has not been undertaken. The purpose of this chapter is to present a conceptual analysis of the central psychological adaptation needs identified by the TPAN and provide implications for patients with MS. Electronic searches were undertaken to identify articles that provide a conceptual analysis of each of the five psychological needs. In addition, searches were undertaken to identify studies that illustrate the experience of patients with MS relating to these needs.