The Effect of a Program Based on Roy’s Adaptation Model on Coping Skills of Children of People with Multiple Sclerosis

Abstract

Background: The health of children is affected by Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in their parents and various complications of it. Given this, this study was conducted to investigate the effect of a program based on Roy’s adaptation model on the coping skills of children of MS patients. Materials and Methods: This study was performed on 78 children of 78 MS patients from Shahrekord Support Association of MS patients including around 1800 patient members in 2018 using a quasi-experimental method. Samples were selected by the convenience sampling method, and a researcher-made checklist was completed based on Roy’s adaptation model by them, and those who scored less than 80% on the checklist were included in the study and randomly allocated to control and intervention groups. The coping skills questionnaire was completed before, immediately, and 2 months after the intervention in two groups. In the intervention group, a supportive training program was developed and implemented based on Roy’s adaptation model in six sessions and followed up for 2 months. Data were analyzed by SPSS version 23 using statistical tests. Results: There was a significant difference in changes in mean coping skills scores during the intervention between control and intervention groups (p < 0.001) so that the coping skills scores showed a significant increase in the intervention group. Conclusions: It is possible to increase the level of adaptation in children of MS patients and improve their coping skills by using educational and supportive programs based on Roy’s adaptation model.

Keywords

• adaptation
• coping skills
• multiple sclerosis
• nursing