Cognitive Self-Efficacy Levels Distinguish Among Disease Severity, Pain-Related Function, and Perceived Health of Individuals With Fibromyalgia

CSE may have a protective value, implying function and efficient coping with FMS, thus contributing to both occupational performance and occupational therapy practice. The CSEQ was first used with FMS individuals, and findings highlight its clinical meaningfulness. Plain-Language Summary: Cognitive self-efficacy (CSE) refers to a person's belief in their ability to recognize and manage cognitive deficits, such as forgetfulness or distractibility, in daily tasks. This study assessed CSE and its clinical significance among individuals with fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). Results showed that individuals with FMS had lower CSE scores compared with healthy norms, with distinct high and low CSE levels. Those with high CSE experienced lower disease severity, less impact of pain on their function, better perceived health, and fewer work absences. Notably, participants in both high- and low-CSE groups did not differ in sensory responsiveness and pain severity scores. These findings suggest that CSE is linked to pain-related function rather than pain intensity and sensory modulation. The study underscores the importance and potential of targeting CSE in occupational therapy practice for individuals with FMS.