Abstract
Objectives. The aim of the study was to evaluate health locus of control as well as self-efficacy and optimism levels in patients with multiple sclerosis.
Methods. Participants in the study were 42patients (15 M, 27 F) aged 20-56 (mean age 39.43 years), diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). The parameters and traits under study were assessed using the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scale, Generalized SelfEfficacy Scale, and Life Orientation Test.
Results. A majority of the MS patients shared belief that their health depends on other people, especially on medical staff. Almost 60% of the examined patients had a strong sense of self-efficacy, while 42.8% - a high optimism level.
Conclusions. External health locus of control was found to predominate among MS patients. In most cases their sense of self-efficacy was strong, and a majority manifested a high level of optimism.