Social support and self-efficacy in patients with Myasthenia Gravis: a common pathway towards positive health outcomes

Neurol Sci. 2010 Apr;31(2):231-5. doi: 10.1007/s10072-009-0194-8.

Abstract

Social support and self-efficacy, that was defined as one's belief in one's capabilities to enact a certain behaviour, have a mediating effect on health outcomes and, by facilitating healthy behaviours and compliance to treatment, reduce morbidity and mortality. This pilot study aims to test whether social support and self-efficacy have a positive effect in improving health outcomes of patients with Myasthenia Gravis. 74 patients (mean age 48.1; 67.6% female) were enrolled and reported low self-efficacy and health status, but good perceived social support. Men reported better self-efficacy than women, and those living with a partner reported higher social support levels. No differences were found stratifying for disease onset, disease stage and patients' working situation. Self-efficacy and tangible support were independent predictors of mental health status. These results provide a preliminary indication that psychosocial interventions aimed to increase self-efficacy could positively mediate mental health status in myasthenic patients, especially among women.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Age of Onset
  • Aged
  • Employment
  • Female
  • Health Status*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Myasthenia Gravis* / psychology
  • Pilot Projects
  • Self Efficacy*
  • Sex Characteristics
  • Social Support*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Young Adult