Orientação positiva para a vida e processos autorregulatórios nos profissionais de saúde

Abstract

The positive orientation to life, construct that integrates three related theoretical dimensions (optimism, life satisfaction and self-esteem), although recent, has already been associated with higher levels of well-being and achievement. Self-control as well as the use of some coping strategies have also proved to be key dimension for successful adaptation. Research with health professionals has focused mainly on the stress and burnout phenomena, knowing little about the dimensions that promote a more positive functioning. In this sense, the present study aimed to clarify the role of coping strategies and self-control in the positive orientation to life in a group of health professionals. A total of 135 health professionals, 86.7% females, aged between 24 and 66 years (M = 38.05, DP = 11.33), participated in this study, 40% of whom are doctors, 36.3% are psychologists and 23.7% nurses. An online survey was administered with the following measures: Demographic Questionnaire, Self-Control Scale, Positivity Scale and Brief COPE. The main results show that the positive orientation for life is positively and significantly associated with the levels of self-control and the use of coping strategies usually considered more adaptive. It was also observed that professionals with higher levels of self-control resort less to coping strategies considered to be maladaptive. Self-control, emotion-focused coping and avoidant coping are significant predictors of positivity, unlike problem-focused coping. Still observed differences in health professionals regarding the coping strategies used. The results obtained are discussed and highlighted the main implications for clinical practice specifically for healthcare professionals. Future research guidelines are also underline.

Date of Award	2019
Original language	Portuguese
Supervisor	Maria José Pereira Ferreira (Supervisor)