Chronic fatigue syndrome, the body and the self: A qualitative analysis
Date
2005
Authors
Lombaard A.
Mouton J.
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Abstract
In a study directed towards the development of a greater understanding of the subjective illness experience of those who suffer from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), we identified the sufferer's relationship with the body as one of the dimensions of the self most affected by CFS. We found that the profound changes instigated by CFS transform the relationship between the self and the body into a frontline where conflict prevails and inner dissension threaten. Participants' experiences fortunately revealed that such discord can be attenuated when the self makes it its personal responsibility to listen attentively to the body and to then respond to it in a way that will support a sensible balance between activity and restriction. © Psychological Society of South Africa. All rights reserved.
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Citation
South African Journal of Psychology
35
2
35
2