Self-efficacy and social support predict benefit finding 12 months after cancer surgery: The mediating role of coping strategies

Abstract

This longitudinal study investigates whether finding benefits in cancer can be predicted by assimilative and accommodative coping strategies, general self-efficacy, and received social support. Self-efficacy and social support were measured 1 month after cancer surgery, coping strategies 6 months after surgery, and benefit finding 12 months after surgery. Ninety-seven patients with cancer completed measures of benefit finding and its predictors. Four dimensions of benefit were distinguished: personal growth, acceptance of life imperfection, sensitivity to others, and improved family relationships. Path analyses revealed that self-efficacy beliefs had direct effects on personal growth, acceptance of life imperfection, and increased sensitivity to others, whereas received social support affected improved family relationships. Effects of social support were unmediated. The effects of self-efficacy on acceptance of life imperfection were mediated by accommodative coping strategies, but the effects of self-efficacy on personal growth and increased sensitivity to others were mediated by assimilative coping strategies. Resources and coping strategies predicted specific dimensions of benefit finding.