THE IMPACT OF CATASTROPHIC BELIEFS ON FUNCTIONING IN CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME

This study investigated the association between catastrophic beliefs a nd disability in the context of Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). A samp le of 282 CFS sufferers were asked about the consequences of pushing t hemselves beyond their present physical state. Responses were coded in to catastrophic or non-catastrophic categories. While not differing on the length of illness or psychological adjustment, subjects demonstra ting catastrophic responses evidenced significantly higher levels of f atigue and were more disabled in terms of their ability to work both i n their normal occupation and around the house. Catastrophizers also s howed greater disability in terms of their sleep and rest, social comm unication, and recreational activities. The role of catastrophic belie fs and personal perceptions of CFS in maintaining the illness is discu ssed.