The effects of self -efficacy on perception of fatigue, barriers to fatigue management, and number of fatigue interventions attempted by chemotherapy patients
Abstract
Despite studies demonstrating that fatigue is a prevalent and disruptive symptom of cancer and its treatments, there is little understanding of individual variation in the experience of fatigue. To this end, the present study explored the relationship between self-efficacy and the perception of fatigue experienced by 220 ambulatory oncology patients undergoing chemotherapy. Further, the relationships between self-efficacy and patient-related barriers to discussing fatigue with the physician and the number of fatigue reducing strategies utilized by chemotherapy patients were examined. Data were collected using self-report instruments from a heterogeneous sample of cancer patients while they received chemotherapy. Regression analyses suggest that higher levels of self-efficacy, most importantly being confident that one can maintain daily activities, contribute to lower levels of fatigue. Self-efficacy also was found to contribute to the understanding of barriers to fatigue management. However, it was not related to the number of fatigue reducing strategies utilized by oncology patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Degree
Ph.D.
Advisors
Gruen, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Psychotherapy
Off-Campus Purdue Users:
To access this dissertation, please log in to our
proxy server.