Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate self-estimated anxiety in different life periods — pre- and post-myocardial infarction (MI) — as well as the current self-concept in former MI patients and healthy referents. An additional aim was to analyse the interrelationship between anxiety and self-concept. The sample consisted of an MI-group including 82 former patients with 1–8 years' distance in time to the MI with a mean age of 62 years. The MI-group was double-matched with a healthy reference (HR) group. Anxiety was measured by a linear analogue scale. Self-concept was measured by Rosenberg's self-esteem scale and a self-confidence scale tested in a pilot study. Analysis was made using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings showed that the MI-patients reported more anxiety in the life periods 56–65 and >65 years of age as well as lower self-esteem and lower self-confidence in the current situation than the HR group. Significant interrelationships between anxiety and self-concept were found, a finding supported by Rosenberg's theory. The relation between anxiety and self-esteem respectively self-confidence within the groups showed different association patterns through the life periods. The result indicates the existence of a non-improved group of MI-patients, implying the need for extended nursing support strategies tailored to the individual. Further research concerning vulnerability factors require qualitative methods.
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