Psychosocial Problems in Adults with Epilepsy: Comparison of Findings from Four Countries

Abstract

Psychosocial problems in groups of adults with epilepsy from Canada, Finland, the German Democratic Republic, and the United States were evaluated by the Washington Psychosocial Seizure Inventory. A number of similarities in psychosocial concerns were found across the four countries. At the forefront for each group were emotional problems, followed by concerns pertaining to adjustment to the seizures themselves. Where far-reaching governmental support of a financial and vocational nature was lacking, difficulties in these areas were also noted. In all cases, few problems were found in matters pertaining to family relationships and to medical care. Hypotheses to account for differences between the groups were discussed.