Psychometric properties of the Norwegian self-efficacy for therapeutic mode use (N-SETMU)

According to the Intentional Relationship Model (IRM), the intentional use of relational approaches in therapy (therapeutic modes) is essential for obtaining successful relationships to clients. There have been no attempts to combine the IRM with self-efficacy theory, and instruments for measuring self-efficacy for therapeutic mode use are lacking.

This study aimed to examine the component structure and internal consistency of the Norwegian version of the Self-Efficacy for Therapeutic Mode Use (N-SETMU).

Occupational therapy students (n = 111) from two education programs completed the N-SETMU along with sociodemographic information. Principal Components Analysis (PCA) was performed and component extraction was controlled using Parallel Analysis. Internal consistency was assessed with Cronbach's α and inter-item correlations.

All items on the N-SETMU loaded on the same latent dimension, tentatively called Self-Efficacy for Therapeutic Mode Use. Cronbach's α for the scale was 0.82.

The N-SETMU is a unidimensional measure of self-efficacy for therapeutic mode use in general. The N-SETMU may be a useful tool for occupational therapy research and audits focusing on occupational therapists' use of therapeutic modes in client interactions.