Social problem solving in chronic fatigue syndrome: preliminary findings

This paper investigates social problem solving in chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), a condition characterized by reduced activity levels and excessive mental fatigue. Although intra- and inter-personal problems are prevalent, no studies have explored social problem-solving skills in this group. Patients were split into two groups: either high or low alexithymia, a condition associated with affect dysregulation. The high alexithymic group viewed problems as threatening, responding either impulsively or avoiding responding altogether; they were poor also in the use of compensatory strategies, which, taken together, increases the likelihood of a negative outcome from attempts at conflict resolution. These findings go some way in successfully identifying potential subgroupings in CFS sufferers and has important implications in terms of the therapy offered