The effect of personality traits on self-care strength in women with gynecological cancer

The aim of this study is to investigate the predictive power of personality traits on self-care agency in women diagnosed with gynecological cancer. A descriptive, cross-sectional, and correlational study design was employed. Study data were collected in the Medical Oncology Chemotherapy Unit of a university hospital between October 10, 2021 and February 12, 2023. Data collection tools included a "Personal Information Form," the "Cervantes Personality Traits Scale," and the "Self-care Agency Scale". The sample size was calculated on the G-Power software by using the A priori statistical power analysis. Accordingly, the sample size was found as 161 women by using linear regression analysis, based on a significance level of 0.05, a power value of 99%, and a medium effect size (0.15). The study was completed with 200 women who met the sampling criteria. Random sampling method was used in the research. Descriptive statistics were presented using percentage, mean, and standard deviation values. The correlation between the mean scores on the sub-dimensions of the Cervantes Personality Traits Scale and the total Self-Care Agency Scale was examined using Pearson Correlation analysis. According to the results of the analysis, Cervantes Personality Traits Scale's Extraversion/Introversion Sub-dimension predicted 37.5% of self-care power (R2: 0.375) and increased self-care power by 0.613% (β=-0.613). Cervantes Personality Traits Scale Emotional Balance/ Neuroticism Sub-dimension predicted 20.1% of self-care power (R2: 0.201) and increased self-care power 0.453 times (β=-0.453). The Cervantes Personality Traits Scale Consistency/Inconsistency Sub-dimension predicted 30.4% of self-care power (R2: 0.304) and increased self-care power 0.551 times (β= -0.551). Simple linear regression analysis was employed to examine the predictive power of the sub-dimensions of the Cervantes Personality Traits Scale on the self-care agency. As a result of the research, it was found that personality traits were predictive factors of self-care agency. Also, personality traits were closely correlated to the self-care agency. It is recommended to provide individualized healthcare and education. Keywords: Gynecology, Cancer, Personality Traits, Self-care, Nursing