The Influence of Maternal Behaviors During Childhood on Self-Efficacy in Individuals With Sickle Cell Disease

Abstract

Little is known about the influence of maternal behaviors during childhood on the self-efficacy of individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD).This study retrospectively investigated the relationship between maternal overprotection and caring during childhood and self-efficacy in adulthood. Using a cross-sectional survey design, 32 adults with SCD completed questionnaires about demographics, maternal parenting behaviors, and self-efficacy. On average, adults with SCD reported moderate levels of SCD self-efficacy, high levels of overprotection, and high levels of caring. Self-efficacy was significantly related to educational level ( r = .39, p = .04), number of SCD crises per year ( r = —.41, p = .04), and caring ( r = .48, p = .01). Using simultaneous regression modeling, maternal caring was significantly predictive of self-efficacy (β = .44, p = .03). Results suggest that maternal caring during childhood may promote the development of self-efficacy in adults with SCD.