The Multiple Sclerosis Self-Management Scale: Revision and Psychometric Analysis

Objective: The Multiple Sclerosis Self-Management scale (MSSM) was developed to provide a multidimensional and psychometrically sound assessment of self-management knowledge and behavior among adults with multiple sclerosis (MS). This article describes recent revisions to the scale and presents the results of subsequent analyses of the factor structure and psychometric adequacy of the revised MSSM. Method: Participants were 197 adults with MS randomly selected from mailing lists of 3 chapters of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Participants completed mailed questionnaires including the MSSM and several additional instruments measuring constructs associated with self-management. Results: Factor analysis of the revised MSSM revealed 5 psychometrically sound factors. Construct validity was supported by factor analysis and correlation of the MSSM with constructs related to self-management. Specifically, the MSSM was significantly positively correlated with MS self-efficacy and quality of life ratings, and significantly negatively correlated with psychological and physical impact of MS, as measured with the Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale. Internal consistency reliability for the scale was acceptable (alpha=.85). Conclusion: The MSSM, as revised, is a brief, psychometrically sound, and multidimensional self-management scale for research and clinical applications.