Perceived Experience of Fatigue in Clinical and General Population: Descriptors and Associated Reactivities

Abstract

AbstractThe aim of this study is the analysis of different descriptors and reactions related to the experience of fatigue. Two groups were compared: a clinical sample (n= 92, 31 males, mean age = 38.87) and a non-clinical (n= 225, 135 males, mean age = 32.45) sample. The total sample was composed of 317 participants (52% males), ranging in age from 18 to 76 years. Findings show the experience of fatigue was mainly related to somatic terms (76% of the total sample). Specific results were found only for the clinical group: (a) significant relationships between fatigue and anxiety, χ2(1) = 34.71,p <.01; tension, χ2(1) = 16.80,p <.01; and sadness, χ2(1) = 24.59,p <.01; (b) higher intensity of fatigue (F= 84.15,p= .001), and predominance of the cognitive components of fatigue. Results showed that fatigue in subjects with a clinical disorder (versus those without) was associated both, to negative emotional states, and to a higher intensity of fatigue, especially in its cognitive elements. Important clinical implications for its assessment and intervention are discussed.