What to control when cancer comes? : the relationship of multidimensional health locus of control, fate control and subjective well-being among Chinese cancer patients

Abstract

Cancer, the most common cause of death in Hong King, poses marked psychological impacts through treatment into cancer survivorship. Literature indicated that internal health locus of control was associated with better psychosocial adjustment (Wang et al., 2013). Meanwhile, fatalistic view was related to avoidant coping and poor psychological adjustment (Chan, 2000). However, fatalism might have a different meaning for the Chinese (Ho et al., 2003). The present study examined the relationship of health locus of control, fate Control and subjective well-being among Chinese cancer patients. Ninety-nine cancer patients were assessed with Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scale, Fate Control Scale from Social Axiom Survey and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy Scale-General during active treatment (Time 1) and with WHO-5 Well-Being Index at a six-month follow-up (Time 2). At Time 1, results indicated positive correlation between powerful others health locus of control and functional well-being. At Time 2, internal health locus of control was positively correlated with WHO-5 while social well-being at Time 1 was positively correlated with WHO-5. Implication of findings and limitations of study were discussed.