The Relationship between Self-Efficacy and Well-Being in Stroke Survivors

Abstract

Objective: A key factor that may influence outcome following a stroke is the level of self-efficacy that stroke survivors have in their ability to function in daily life. The aim of this study was to explore the association between selfefficacy and the three components of well-being (life satisfaction, positive affect, and negative affect). Method: A convenience sample of 80 (40 males, 40 females) stroke survivors were recruited for this study (mean age=62.77, SD=11.24; range=31-83). Self-report measures of cognitive functioning, self-efficacy, life satisfaction, positive and negative affect, physical functioning, and social desirability were administered. Hierarchical multiple regressions and mediation analyses were performed to examine whether self-efficacy made a unique contribution to well-being after taking into account significant demographic factors, physical functioning, and perceptions of actual performance. Results: Self-efficacy in psychosocial functioning was related to all components of well-being, even when relevant demographic variables and level of physical functioning were controlled. Further analysis revealed that this relationship persisted when a proxy for actual performance in daily tasks was entered as a possible mediator. In contrast, selfefficacy in activities of daily living was only related to positive affect and was not associated with negative affect nor was it related to life satisfaction once physical functioning and relevant demographic variables were controlled. Conclusions: Self-efficacy, especially in psychosocial functioning, can and does influence the well-being of stroke survivors. It is clear that stroke survivors can continue to have considerable influence over their well-being and quality of life.