Relationship and partner moderator variables increase self-efficacy of performing skin self-examination - 24/04/13
Abstract |
Objective |
We sought to identify relationship and partner-related moderating variables that influence the effectiveness of both a couples and a solo learning intervention designed to increase skin self-examination behavior in a sample of patients at risk for developing melanoma.
Methods |
Patients received a brief intervention designed to teach skin self-examination skills and were randomly assigned into either a solo learning condition where the intervention was administered to the patient alone (n = 65) or a couple learning condition where the intervention was administered to the patient and patient’s spouse or cohabiting partner (n = 65). The main outcome measure was skin self-examination self-efficacy, which is the strongest mediator of skin self-examination. The relationship moderator variables measured were quality of relationship, partner motivation, and ability to assist in implementation of the intervention.
Results |
When quality of the marital/partner relationship was high, the beneficial effects provided by the partner being included in the skin self-examination skills training were the highest and patients exhibited higher self-efficacy. Similar effects were observed for those with partners who were motivated to implement the intervention, and for those with partners high in ability to provide support.
Limitations |
Study limitations include the need to evaluate whether the effects can be sustained long term and the exclusion of patients with melanoma without partners.
Conclusions |
The amount of beneficial effects gained by the patient from the skin self-examination intervention was influenced by marital/partner relationships. Clinicians may need to consider these relationship and partner characteristics when communicating to patients about skin cancer screening.
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Supported by 5R21 CA-103833-02 (Dr Robinson) from the National Cancer Institute. |
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Conflicts of interest: None declared. |
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Reprints not available from the authors. |
Vol 58 - N° 5
P. 755-762 - mai 2008 Retour au numéroBienvenue sur EM-consulte, la référence des professionnels de santé.
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