Self-classification as an adult in patients with type 1 diabetes: relationships with glycemic control and illness coping.

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.