Illness uncertainty and treatment motivation in type 2 diabetes patients.
OBJECTIVE
To characterize the uncertainty in illness and the motivation for treatment and to evaluate the existing relation between these variables in individuals with type 2 diabetes.


METHODS
Descriptive, correlational study, using a sample of 62 individuals in diabetes consultation sessions. The Uncertainty Stress Scale and the Treatment Self-Regulation Questionnaire were used.


RESULTS
The individuals with type 2 diabetes present low levels of uncertainty in illness and a high motivation for treatment, with a stronger intrinsic than extrinsic motivation. A negative correlation was verified between the uncertainty in the face of the prognosis and treatment and the intrinsic motivation.


CONCLUSIONS
These individuals are already adapted, acting according to the meanings they attribute to illness. Uncertainty can function as a threat, intervening negatively in the attribution of meaning to the events related to illness and in the process of adaptation and motivation to adhere to treatment. Intrinsic motivation seems to be essential to adhere to treatment.
Apóstolo
João Luís Alves
JL
Escola Superior de Enfermagem Dr. Angelo da Fonseca, Portugal. joaoapostolo@eseaf.pt
Viveiros
Catarina Sofia Castro
CS
Nunes
Helena Isabel Ribeiro
HI
Domingues
Helena Raquel Faustino
HR
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001294:Attitude to Health; D003924:Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / Q000628:therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D017533:Marital Status; D008875:Middle Aged; D009042:Motivation; D010349:Patient Compliance; D011379:Prognosis; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires