ABSTRACT
Introduction: The Theory of Self-Transcendence proposes that individuals who face human vulnerability or mortality obtain an increased capacity for self- transcendence and its positive influence on well-being. The aim of current study was to determine the effect of Peer Support Groups on promotion of Physical Health Status in Multiple Sclerosis by Testing Reed's Self-Transcendence Theory
Methods and Materials: This study is a before and after quasi-experimental method based on self-transcendence theory that was conducted on 33 patients with confirmed MS participated in 3 peer support groups. Eight weekly 2 hours sessions were held. Data collection tools was Physical aspect of 'Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life Inventory' with 78 item and Cronbach's coefficient was 0.93, 'Self-Transcendence Scale' [STS] with 15 item and Cronbach's coefficient was 0.68 that after modifying, it increased to 0.81. Revised Illness Perception Questionnaire [IPQ-R] with 75 items and Cronbach's coefficient was 0.80. Patients completed tools pre- and post of sessions. Data analyzed by SPSS [v.18]
Findings: Illness perception can predict self-transcendence and physical health with 0.7207 effects. Also, self-transcendence can predict physical health with 0.43 effects. New finding was a direct relation between illness perception and physical health [p=0.001] that was not mentioned in Reed's Theory
Conclusions: Based on the results, this theory can be used in research and educational management in nursing and nursing management to improve the physical health of MS patients