Demographic and clinical factors related to self-efficacy among college students with chronic illness

Self-efficacy is essential for supporting health-related behaviors, yet there is limited research on demographic and clinical factors that may influence self-efficacy among emerging adults with chronic illnesses. This study aimed to examine the relationships between sex and medication use on self-efficacy. A sample of 127 college students (mean age = 19.26) with at least one chronic illness completed the PROMIS Self-Efficacy for Managing Chronic Conditions- Managing Symptoms (short-form) and a demographic questionnaire. Findings revealed a significant main effect of sex, where females had significantly lower self-efficacy compared to males. The impact of medication use on self-efficacy was not significant. The interaction effect of sex and medication use on self-efficacy was also nonsignificant. These results highlight the need for targeted interventions, such as self-efficacy screening and cognitive behavioral therapies, to improve confidence and health outcomes in college-aged females managing chronic illnesses.