The mediating role of processing speed on the relationship between executive functions and social cognition in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis patients

This study examined the mediating role of processing speed between executive functions and social cognition in 67 relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) patients. Executive functions were assessed using the Trail Making Test-Part B (TMT-B) and the Stroop Neuropsychological Screening Test (SNST); social cognition with the Reading the Mind in the Eyes Test (RMET); and processing speed with the Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT). Mediated effects were explored using a series of regression analyses and were further confirmed through bootstrapping procedures. Results revealed that processing speed partially mediated the relationship between cognitive shifting (TMT-B) and social cognition (RMET), and fully mediated the relationship between inhibitory control (SNST) and social cognition (RMET). These findings highlight the importance of processing speed in the socio-cognitive impairments observed in RRMS patients, thus suggesting that comprehensive assessments and targeted interventions in this clinical group.