An Analysis of Patient Information Management and Satisfaction in the Context of Theory of Motivated Information Management

Prior research has been conducted regarding information management in various contexts, but not as much is known about the specific ways in which individuals manage information surrounding mental health. Using the theory of motivated information management, two major components of the theory - efficacy and information management - were examined in the context of mental health. While other taboo topics have been examined (e.g. sexual health), the literature on mental health information management is lacking, specifically in using a population that has endured some of these issues. Moreover, the effects of stigma that people with mental health issues face were analyzed. This stigma may be internalized and even perpetuated by their mental health professional which can lessen their satisfaction with their mental health professional, and bring about detrimental health effects. A total of 139 participants were pooled from undergraduate communication classes at University of the Punjab Lahore. The participants completed several self-report assessments to determine mental illness severity, efficacy, communication competence, internalized stigma, other-related stigma, patient satisfaction, information management and overall mental health. Results revealed that patient satisfaction was related to target efficacy, communication efficacy, and communication competence. Moreover, patient satisfaction had a positive effect on seeking information and a negative effect on avoiding information. Additionally, this study found that internalized and physician-prompted stigma had a negative effect on individuals coping, communication, and target efficacy as well as their patient satisfaction and information seeking. Ultimately, the current investigation expanded the understanding of the relationship between different communication components, patient satisfaction, and individual’s information management in the context of mental health.