The Mediating Role of Psychological Well-Being in the Effect of Dating Violence Attitude on Self-Efficacy in University Students

Abstract

PurposeThe objective of this study was to examine the potential mediating role of psychological well-being in the relationship between dating violence attitude and self-efficacy among university students.MethodsThis study was conducted with university students between March and June 2023. A total of 400 university students completed a cross-sectional survey. Participants completed measures, including the Dating Violence Attitude Scale, the Psychological Well-being Scale and the Self-Efficacy Scale. Following preliminary analyses, a mediation model was analyzed using the AMOS program and the PROCESS macro for SPSS, with the bootstrap method applied.ResultsSelf-efficacy was positively related to psychological well-being. Psychological well-being mediated the effect of physical and general violence on self-efficacy. No relationship was found between emotional, economic, and sexual violence and either psychological well-being or self-efficacy. In other words, the effect of dating violence attitude on self-efficacy was partially explained by the positive effect of psychological well-being.ConclusionsDating violence attitude among university students positively affect their psychological well-being, which in turn increases their sense of self-efficacy. It is critical to address the psychological implications of these attitudes to restore and improve individual's belief in their ability to handle challenges and achieve their goals. Promoting psychological well-being could serve as a pathway to rebuilding self-efficacy among university students who experience negative dating violence attitude.