Availability of Emotional Support, Conflictual Interactions, and Coping as Predictors of Adherence and Affect in Individuals with Diabetes

Although the treatment of diabetes is often complex and demanding, it is necessary. Unfortunately studies show that current adherence rates are at a disappointingly low level. Additionally, individuals diagnosed with diabetes often report high levels of negative mood, depression, and anxiety. The purpose of this study was to contribute to the understanding of adherence to diabetes treatment regimens and mood states in individuals with diabetes by examining the associations among availability of social support, conflictual social interactions, coping, mood states, and adherence. One hundred and fourteen individuals with types 1 and 2 diabetes were recruited and completed either an online version of the survey or a paper and pencil version of the survey. Standard multiple regressions were used lor availability of social support, conflictual interactions, and degree of coping style used as predictor variables with adherence constructs and affect as the outcome variables. No significant relationships for adherence to foot care or taking medication were observed. Individuals with diabetes who engage in instrumental coping were more likely to adhere to general diet and exercise behaviors. Along with instrumental coping, individuals who had more support available to them were more likely to adhere to blood-glucose testing recommendations. The presence of a positive affect was related to increased use of instrumental coping, decreased use of emotional preoccupation coping, and increased availability of support. Individuals who engaged in emotional preoccupation coping were more likely to exhibit a negative affect.