Effect of group therapy based on choice theory on emotional control and life expectancy in patients with MS in Tehran

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is considered as one of the most important causes of mortality and disability in advanced and developing countries. The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of group therapy on emotional control and life expectancy in MS patients based on the choice theory. This quasi-experimental study was conducted with pre-test and post-test design along with control group. The statistical population consisted of all MS patients referring to the MS Association of Tehran in 2017. Williams' Emotional Control Questionnaire and Miller's Life Expectancy Questionnaire were used. Data were analyzed by descriptive and inferential statistics using covariance analysis. The results showed that reality therapy based on choice theory was effective on emotional control and life expectancy. There is a significant difference between patients with MS in experimental and control groups, at least for one of the variables of life expectancy and emotional control. Reality therapy can improve psychological state of the patients with MS and increases their life expectancy through bringing the qualitative world closer to the real world of the patients. It can lead to self-esteem and motivation, life expectancy and effective management of negative emotional control.