Comparative analyses of Perceived Competence and Perceived Health Competence

Two empirical strategies were used to study Perceived Competence (PC) and Perceived Health Competence (PHC): (a) locating them into the Big Five Factor frame of reference, and (b) comparing their predictive utility in relation to different criteria (coping styles, symptoms and health behaviors). One hundred and seventy three subjects participated in the study. Results showed that Emotional Stability predicted both PC and PHC, whereas Energy was only associated to PC. On the other hand, task-focused coping was better predicted by PC than by PHC. Nevertheless, this expectancy made a stronger contribution in the variability of emotion-focused coping, symptoms and health behaviors. These findings emphasize the similarities between PC and PHC, as well as their divergent validity when predicted either action or health-related outcomes.