Personality traits are not associated with changes in employment status over 3 years in persons with multiple sclerosis

Hiele, K. van der; Egmond, E.E.A. van; Gorp, D.A.M. van; Jongen, P.J.; Reneman, M.F.; Klink, J.J.L. van der; ... ; Visser, L.H. (2022)

Article / Letter to editor

Previous research discovered a protective effect of higher conscientiousness against a 3-year deterioration in employment status in persons with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). To replicate these findings, we used data from a multicentre prospective cohort study where 145 employed pwMS completed questionnaires, neurological and neuropsychological examinations at baseline and after 3 years. A 3-year deterioration in employment status was reported in 31.0%. We observed no differences in personality, demographics or clinical characteristics between pwMS with deteriorated or stable employment status. These null findings may be partly explained by the classification of deteriorated employment status, which does not reflect Dutch labour conditions.

• Multiple sclerosis
• employment status
• personality
• mood
• fatigue
• prospective study

• All authors: Hiele, K. van der; Egmond, E.E.A. van; Gorp, D.A.M. van; Jongen, P.J.; Reneman, M.F.; Klink, J.J.L. van der; Beenakker, E.A.C.; Eijk, J.J.J. van; Frequin, S.T.F.M.; Hoitsma, E.; Gerlach, O.H.H.; Mostert, J.P.; Verhagen, W.I.M.; Heerings, M.A.P.; Middelkoop, H.A.M.; Visser, L.H.
• Date: 2022-10-01
• Journal: Multiple Sclerosis Journal - Experimental, Translational and Clinical
• Volume: 8
• Issue: 4
• DOI: doi:10.1177/20552173221145576