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Self-efficacy and adherence as mediating factors between personality traits and health-related quality of life

Abstract

Purpose  

Personality traits are rather stable dispositions in adulthood, while self-efficacy and adherence may be modified through
targeted interventions. Health-related quality of life (HRQL) serves as a vital outcome measure. The present aim was to explore
the function of self-efficacy and adherence as mediators for the influencing effect of personality traits on HRQL in people
with chronic disease.

Methods  

An epidemiological sample of 786 persons completed questionnaires on personality, general self-efficacy, adherence behaviour
and HRQL. Data were statistically analysed using descriptive statistics, correlation analyses and path models.

Results  

Self-efficacy mediated the effect of Extraversion and Conscientiousness on mental HRQL. Neuroticism had a direct effect on
both physical and mental HRQL. Adherence partially mediated the effect of both Agreeableness and Conscientiousness on mental
HRQL.

Conclusions  

The mental HRQL in people scoring low on Extraversion or low on Conscientiousness could be improved by strengthening general
self-efficacy. Increasing adherence in people scoring low on Agreeableness or Conscientiousness could improve their mental
HRQL, but the improvement was small and may be of lesser clinical relevance. These results argue for personalized interventions
intended to positively affect health outcomes in people with chronic disease.

  • Content Type Journal Article
  • Pages 1-9
  • DOI 10.1007/s11136-012-0181-z
  • Authors
    • Malin Axelsson, Krefting Research Centre, Institute of Medicine, Internal Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Box 424, 405 30 Göteborg, Sweden
    • Jan Lötvall, Krefting Research Centre, Institute of Medicine, Internal Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Box 424, 405 30 Göteborg, Sweden
    • Christina Cliffordson, Department of Nursing, Health and Culture, University West, 461 86 Trollhättan, Sweden
    • Jesper Lundgren, Department of Psychology, University of Gothenburg, Box 500, 405 30 Göteborg, Sweden
    • Eva Brink, Department of Nursing, Health and Culture, University West, 461 86 Trollhättan, Sweden