The Role of Self-Efficacy in Women's Health-seeking Behaviors in Northwestern Botswana

J Health Care Poor Underserved. 2019;30(2):653-667. doi: 10.1353/hpu.2019.0048.

Abstract

Although research assessing the role of self-efficacy in health behaviors in sub-Saharan Africa remains limited, recent research in Botswana suggests that travel time, frequency of visits, and sexual violence influence women's health-seeking. This study used cross-sectional data from 479 women collected in 2012 in Botswana to test the psychometric properties of the Generalized Self-Efficacy Scale (GSE) in Setswana, the local language, as a measure of self-efficacy. Findings confirm the GSE's validity as a unidimensional measure of self-efficacy in this population. Regression analyses suggest that each additional point increase on the Setswana GSE reduces by one third the odds that a woman would forego a clinic visit. Frequency of clinic visits and experiences of sexual violence were also significant predictors. Interventions that enhance self-efficacy may contribute to Botswana's health promotion efforts but will be limited if they fail to address sexual violence and how it is viewed in this setting.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Botswana
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Patient Acceptance of Health Care / psychology*
  • Psychological Tests
  • Self Efficacy*