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Family Resilience and the Management of Fibromyalgia: Implications for Family Therapists

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Abstract

Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) is one of the most troubling rheumatic disorders for patients, significant others, and the health care providers who treat them. Responses from 150 participants provided valuable information on the relationship between family resilience and the management of fibromyalgia. Self reported family stressors, strains, and distress were significantly associated with an increase in health problems/functional disability, whereas family hardiness and family social support were associated with a decrease. Family stressors and family strains were also positively associated with the frequency of medication use. Medical family therapy interventions that consider the familial context are recommended for treatment. Additional implications for clinical practice and future research are discussed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Sage Health Care, PLLC, 339 Allumbaugh Street, Boise, ID, 83704

    J. Cameron Preece

  2. Department of Marriage and Family Therapy, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY, 13244

    Jonathan G. Sandberg

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  1. J. Cameron Preece
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  2. Jonathan G. Sandberg
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Correspondence to Jonathan G. Sandberg.

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J. Cameron Preece, PhD, Sage Health Care, PLLC, 339 Allumbaugh Street, Boise, ID 83704. Jonathan G. Sandberg, PhD, Department of Marriage and Family Therapy, Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY 13244. (jgandbe@syr.edu)

Special thanks go to Linda Stone Fish, PhD, for her support and guidance throughout the study.

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Preece, J.C., Sandberg, J.G. Family Resilience and the Management of Fibromyalgia: Implications for Family Therapists. Contemp Fam Ther 27, 559–576 (2005). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10591-005-8242-x

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