The comparation of self-efficacy and coping styles between older adults and undergraduates

Abstract

Objective To investigate the age effect on self-efficacy, coping styles, and their relationship. Methods 48 older adults and 49 undergraduates were investigated, using the background questionnaire, Coping Style Scale, and the Chinese version of General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES). Results (1) The mean scores of GSES of older adults (43.47±11.49) were significantly higher than undergraduates (40.82±7.88)( P <0.05). Solving problem and self-accusation of coping styles were significantly different between the two groups( P <0.01,P <0.05). (2) Self-efficacy was significantly related to some dimensions of coping styles ( P <0.01 or P <0.05) and the correlation patterns between self-efficacy and coping styles among older adults were different to that among undergraduates. (3) Among undergraduates, the group with higher self-efficacy was significantly different to the group with lower self-efficacy in terms of coping styles ( P <0.05). Conclusion The self-efficacy, coping styles and their correlation pattern of older adults are significantly different to these of undergraduates. Key words: Self-efficacy; Coping style; Older adult