Thesis
A mixed-methods investigation into the role of illness perceptions and coping in endometriosis-related quality of life
- Creator
- Rights statement
- Awarding institution
- University of Strathclyde
- Date of award
- 2024
- Thesis identifier
- T17111
- Person Identifier (Local)
- 202056393
- Qualification Level
- Qualification Name
- Department, School or Faculty
- Abstract
- Endometriosis is associated with reduced quality of life. The common-sense model of self-regulation (CSM-SR) theorises that illness perceptions (IPs) shape responses to a health threat, including coping strategies. However, the CSM-SR has not been comprehensively explored in endometriosis, despite evidence linking IPs to physical and mental health outcomes in several chronic health conditions. The current mixed-methods research aimed to assess the CSM-SR in the context of endometriosis by evaluating the dynamic nature of endometriosis-related IPs and investigating coping as a mediator between IPs and wellbeing. Furthermore, the longitudinal psychosocial predictors of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and mental wellbeing were investigated. A qualitative component aimed to uncover the IPs held by participants, and the impact of these IPs on HRQoL. A longitudinal, two-wave survey spanning one year was distributed to individuals with a diagnosis of endometriosis. Four hundred and eight participants completed the baseline survey, with 283 completing the follow-up survey. Regression analyses revealed IPs, collectively, to be the strongest longitudinal predictors of HRQoL and mental wellbeing, over and above clinical and demographic factors. Perceptions surrounding the timeline and identity of endometriosis were amongst the strongest singular predictors of HRQoL. Mediation analyses indicated that coping influenced the relationships between IPs and outcomes. Thirty in-depth interviews analysed using deductive and inductive reflexive thematic analysis enabled the construction of 5 themes, demonstrating the impact of endometriosis on the life trajectory and the ways in which participants navigated life with the condition. Each theme mapped onto the pre-defined IP dimensions, with fears surrounding the consequences and emotional impact of endometriosis prominent. Integration of the quantitative and qualitative elements revealed points of convergence, complementarity, and divergence. Findings indicated a pervasive impact of IPs and coping styles on HRQoL and wellbeing outcomes, suggesting that interventions targeting these factors may support the wellbeing of affected individuals.
- Advisor / supervisor
- Cogan, Nicola
- Williams, Lynn
- Resource Type
- DOI
Relations
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PDF of thesis T17111 | 2024-10-30 | Public | Download |