Hope in multiple chemical sensitivity: social support and attitude towards healthcare delivery as predictors of hope

Abstract

This paper examines hope, as measured by the Herth Hope Scale, and its predictors in a sample of 305 people self-identified with multiple chemical sensitivity. The sample had relatively low levels of hope with scores unrelated to gender, severity or length of illness, income loss as a result of illness, or reported iatrogenic harm. Hope scores were positively correlated with perceived social support, having found personal growth through illness, age, reported level of supportiveness from a partner, an improved course of illness and level of reported safety of the home environment in regard to chemical exposures. Negative correlations were found with attitude toward healthcare delivery, fatigue and reported abuse/ostracism from family members other than partner. Social support, Healthcare Orientation, growth through illness, fatigue and age predicted hope scores accounted for 55% of the variance. Implications and suggestions for future research are discussed.

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