Exploring the Link Between Sense of Coherence, Cognitive Flexibility, and Well-Being in Patients With Schizophrenia: A Cross-Sectional Study


BAŞKAYA E.

Western Journal of Nursing Research, vol.48, no.3, pp.274-281, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, SSCI, Scopus) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 48 Issue: 3
  • Publication Date: 2026
  • Doi Number: 10.1177/01939459251400481
  • Journal Name: Western Journal of Nursing Research
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, CINAHL, Gender Studies Database, MEDLINE, Psycinfo, Public Affairs Index, Violence & Abuse Abstracts
  • Page Numbers: pp.274-281
  • Keywords: cognitive flexibility, psychiatric nursing, schizophrenia, sense of coherence, well-being
  • Uşak University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Background: Schizophrenia is a chronic and severe mental health condition that adversely affects individuals’ sense of coherence, cognitive flexibility, and overall well-being. Objectives: This study aimed to examine the association between sense of coherence, cognitive flexibility, and well-being in people with schizophrenia. Methods: This cross-sectional and correlational study was conducted with 104 patients diagnosed with schizophrenia in a community mental health center in Western Turkey. Data were collected through a personal information form, the Sense of Coherence (SOC) Scale, the Cognitive Flexibility Inventory (CFI), and the Flourishing Scale (FS). Results: The mean (± SD) scores obtained by participants were 52.8 ± 11.4 for the SOC Scale, 57.0 ± 16.5 for the CFI, and 37.4 ± 11.8 for the FS. Analyses revealed positive and significant correlations between the total scores of the SOC Scale, the CFI, and the FS, as well as their respective subdimensions (P < .05). Moreover, CFI and FS scores accounted for 63% of the variance in SOC scores among patients (adjusted R2 = 0.63; F = 88.43). Conclusion: Intervention programs that enhance sense of coherence, cognitive flexibility, and well-being should be developed and implemented for individuals with schizophrenia. These findings highlight the role of mental health nurses in implementing psychosocial interventions to increase cognitive flexibility and well-being in people diagnosed with schizophrenia.