The relationship of hopelessness to cardiac health status, multidimensional health locus of control, spirituality and social support in men with chronic coronary heart disease

Abstract

An increasing number of Americans are surviving longer with coronary heart disease (CHD). The purpose of this study was to describe the relationship of hopelessness to cardiac health status, multidimensional (internal, powerful others, fate) health locus of control, spirituality and social support in men with chronic CHD. A total of 57 men participated in this investigation. Findings indicated hopelessness was negatively correlated to age, perceived adequacy of finances, health rating in general and social support. The use of digoxin and belief in fate controlling health correlated positively with hopelessness. The most significant predictors of hopelessness were health rating in general, fate health locus of control and perceived adequacy of finances. The information obtained by this study provides nurses with guidance in the assessment and intervention of hopelessness in individuals with chronic CHD. By assisting individuals to sustain hope, quality of life and the potential to heal are enhanced.