Latent profile analysis of self-efficacy in information security and positive coping level among nursing students: a multicenter cross-sectional study in China

Objective This study aimed to (1) identify latent profiles of nursing students based on self-efficacy in information security and positive coping, and (2) examine factors associated with self-efficacy in information security. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted on nursing students. Latent profile analysis was used to identify potential profiles based on self-efficacy in information security and positive coping levels. Subsequently, multivariate linear regression was conducted to identify factors associated with the self-efficacy in information security. Results A total of 1,832 nursing students participated in this study. Four distinct latent profiles were identified: low self-efficacy-negative coping profile (24.0%), low self-efficacy-positive coping profile (10.6%), awareness-dominant profile (56.2%), and high self-efficacy-positive coping profile (9.2%). Multivariate linear regression analysis further revealed that education level, grade, clinical internship experience, completion of a nursing informatics course, receipt of information security training, and experience of digital victimization were associated with self-efficacy in information security ( P < 0.05). Conclusion The findings revealed heterogeneous profiles and identified factors associated with self-efficacy in information security among nursing students. These results underscore the importance of developing tailored interventions for this population.