Correlates of Self-Efficacy in Diabetes Self-Care Among Hispanic Adults With Diabetes

Abstract

PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to examine factors associated with increased diabetes self-efficacy among insulin-requiring Hispanic adults with diabetes. METHODS A cross-sectional survey design was used to obtain self-reported data on a nonrandom sample of 97 insulin-requiring Hispanic adults with diabetes. The Insulin Management Diabetes Self Efficacy Scale (IMDSES) was translated into Spanish and administered with a demographic questionnaire by trained bilingual/bicultural interviewers in each respondent's own home. Factor analysis of the IMDSES revealed 4 subscales that corresponded with major diabetes self-care management behaviors. RESULTS Respondents gave low to average self-efficacy ratings on their ability to manage all aspects of their disease. Behaviors that required problem solving in changing circumstances received the lowest scores. Attending diabetes classes and having home nursing visits were associated with an increased sense of selfefficacy, particularly as it related to diet and insulin. Englishspeaking ability was associated with a general sense of selfefficacy in managing diabetes care. CONCLUSIONS The model tested was able to explain modest levels of selfefficacy, particularly in 2 of the most important diabetes management areas, insulin and diet management.