Self-efficacy as mediators of the association between dyadic coping and quality of life among spousal caregiver of patients with cervical cancer

ObjectiveThis study aims to explore the influence of dyadic coping (DC) on the quality of life (QoL) of spousal caregivers for patients with cervical cancer and to investigate the mediating role of self-efficacy in this relationship.MethodsA convenience sample of 206 spouses of cervical cancer patients from five hospitals in Jiangsu Province, China, was included in the study. The participants completed three instruments: the 12-item Short Form Health Survey, the General Self-Efficacy Scale, and the Dyadic Coping Inventory. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze the mediating effect of self-efficacy in the DC and QoL relationship.ResultsThe study found a positive correlation between self-efficacy and dyadic coping. Self-efficacy partially mediated the impact of DC on QoL, accounting for 16% of the total effect. Self-efficacy played a mediating role in facilitating the indirect positive effects of DC on QoL.ConclusionsSpousal caregivers of cervical cancer patients frequently experience a relatively low QoL. The results suggest that interventions aimed at enhancing dyadic coping among spousal caregivers should incorporate strategies to improve self-efficacy, given its mediating role in the positive relationship between DC and QoL.Trial registrationNot registered.