Influence of Interpersonal Attitude on Communication Competence in Care Workers for Frail Elderly

Lim, Seung Joo; Yi, Yeo Jin

Abstract

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to identify the influence of interpersonal attitude (I+, I-, U+, U-) on communication competence in care workers for frail elderly.
METHODS
This study was a cross-sectional survey. The data were collected from 153 care workers for frail elderly using a structured questionnaire. The data were analyzed using multiple regression with the SPSS/WIN 20.0 program.
RESULTS
The interpersonal attitude style of subjects was I+U+, and the score of communication competence was 3.53. There were significant differences in interpersonal attitude (I+, I-), and communication competence depending on age, education level, experience of personality type test (yes). Factors influencing on communication competence in care workers were interpersonal attitude (I+, I-, U+) and experience of personality type test with R2 value of 48.5% (F=23.47 p<.001). The most influencing factor was I+ (beta=.36), followed by I- (beta=-.22), U+ (beta=.20), and experience of personality type test (yes) (beta=.16).
CONCLUSION
It is needed to maintain the interpersonal attitude style (I+U+) of care workers. Continuing education program is needed for increasing communication competence especially for those fifties and over, and experienced care workers. Giving an opportunity for personality test is helpful to increase communication competence in care workers.