Abstract:

This qualitative study explored how adults diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) perceive their condition as a catalyst for personal growth or transformation, despite the ongoing, incurable, and highly debilitating nature of CFS. As no research has yet explored positive change from the adversity of CFS, this study was guided by established research and theory derived from Park and Folkman's integrative meta-model of meaning in the context of stress and coping, as well as from the posttraumatic growth (PTG) literature. A sample was selected of 15 adult participants who confirmed CFS diagnostic criteria and reported personal, spiritual, and/or religious growth or transformation from CFS. An in-depth semi-structured interview was conducted with each participant. Thematic analysis of the interview data depicted an epic journey in which CFS served as a catalyst for positive change, as to minimize symptom severity, reduce suffering, and enhance quality of life, participants were forced to make certain adjustments in attitude, perception, and behavior. Study findings indicate how the ongoing reconstruction of personal and spiritual meaning, along with progressive attitudinal shifts, especially in acceptance, combined to significantly alter the context and means by which coping behaviors were approached, experienced, and perceived. Particular coping strategies thus served to initiate the positive change process, while continuing modifications in meaning, perception, and attitude--mediated by ongoing cognitive reappraisals--facilitated emergence of developmental changes that participants deemed growth or transformation. Respondents viewed these changes as positive, and were appreciative of them, such that all participants demonstrated the capacity to perceive the benefits, or blessings, of CFS. These perceptions potentially represent an adaptive response more effective than any CFS coping or adjustment behavior described in the literature to date, suggesting the need to reexamine concepts of health and wellness in relation to the unique circumstances of the CFS population.