Qom University of Medical Sciences Journal

Background and Objectives: This study was carried out with the aim of predicting pain intensity and acceptance and level of quality of life in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) based on the feature of interpersonal forgiveness.   Methods: This research was conducted as a correlational study. In this study, of the patients with irritable bowel syndrome referred to Isfahan Digestive Health Center, 123 subjects were selected by census   method during a certain period of time . IBS was diagnosed by a gastroenterologist based on ROME III criteria. To collect information, the scales of the interpersonal forgiveness (IF), pain intensity (PI), chronic pain acceptance questionnaire (CPAQ) and quality of life    (SF-36), were used. Data were analyzed using statistical methods of Pearson correlation coefficient and multiple regression.   Results: Pearson correlation analysis showed that there was a significant negative correlation between the forgiveness and pain intensity, and a positive correlation between forgiveness and the variables of pain acceptance and quality of life. However, multiple regression analysis showed that the resentment control factor was the best predictive factor for pain intensity and quality of life.   Conclusion: The feature of interpersonal forgiveness and its related concepts can be evaluated in patients with irritable bowel syndrome and there is a relationship between this feature and important aspects of life that are associated with chronic pain. Hence, in Iranian           society whose culture is intertwined with religious teachings, the implementation of forgiveness-based interventions, in order to control negative emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, can be effective in improvement process of physical symptoms and quality of life of patients.