Observer perspective in autobiographical memory predicts symptom severity in CFS/ME

Abstract

Background: Taking an observer (as opposed to field) perspective in autobiographical memory has been implicated in social anxiety, PTSD and depression. Within CFS/ME, symptom severity varies greatly. It is hypothesized that taking an observer perspective will be linked to more severe symptoms in CFS/ME. Methods: CFS/ME patients (N = 87) recalled four types of autobiographical memories (namely, relating to physical activity, fatigue, physical pain and happiness). Degree of observer perspective was judged on a seven-point scale. They also received HADS and other measures. Regression analysis was carried out on CFS/ME symptom severity. HADS depression and anxiety were entered at step 1, perceived risk of illnesses unrelated to CFS/ME at step 2, and degree of observer memory at Step 3. Findings: Regression analysis revealed that symptom severity was significantly predicted by greater observer perspective in Activity Memory, Fatigue Memory, and Happy Memory. This was the case even when HADS depression and anxiety, and perceived risk of unrelated illnesses, were controlled for. In contrast, Pain Memory was predicted by depression alone. Discussion: Symptom severity in CFS/ME was predicted by the way in which autobiographical memories were recalled for activity, fatigue, and happy (but not pain) events, in addition to prediction by level of depression and perceived risk of illness unrelated to CFS/ME. It is proposed that a therapeutic intervention which trains CFS/ME patients to recall past activity, fatigue and happy occasions in their life from a field perspective may lead to a decrease in symptom severity.