Self-classification as an adult in patients with type 1 diabetes: relationships with glycemic control and illness
Koen Luyckx1, Philip Moons, Ilse Weets
1Catholic University Leuven, Leuven, Belgium. Koen.Luyckx@psy.kuleuven.be
Objective:
Previous community research has demonstrated the link between adult self-classification and health behaviors. The present study investigated the extent to which individuals with type 1 diabetes (ages 18-30 years) classified themselves as adults as compared with individuals without diabetes. Adult self-classification was examined in relation to illness coping and glycemic control.
Methods:
A total of 194 patients and 287 control individuals participated. Adult self-classification was assessed using a single item, coping was assessed using the Diabetes Coping Measure, and glycemic control was determined by HbA(1c) values.
Results:
Compared with control participants, more patients classified themselves as adults. Furthermore, adult self-classification was positively related to glycemic control. Structural equation modeling indicated that coping mediated the relationship between adult self-classification and glycemic control.
Conclusion:
Individuals with diabetes classified themselves as adults more often than did their peers without diabetes, possibly due to their need to master their lives when confronted with diabetes. Adult self-classification appeared to function as a resource for glycemic control through its relationship with specific coping strategies.
Practice Implications:
The present study underscores the need to assess adult self-classification in individuals with diabetes. Our findings call for a developmentally tailored transition from pediatric to adult care.
Related Concept Videos
Diabetes: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Complications
Diabetes Mellitus: Overview and Type I Subtype
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. As a result, the body is unable to produce sufficient insulin, and individuals with...
Diabetes Mellitus: Type 2 and Gestational
Type I Diabetes I: Introduction
Type I Diabetes III: Clinical Manifestations
Type II Diabetes Mellitus III: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnosis
