Perceived stress, coping self-efficacy and illness perception in type 1 diabetics

Abstract

This study examined perceived stress, coping self-efficacy and illness perception in type 1 diabetics. The role of training and the length of time the patient has been living with type 1 diabetes were also examined in separate analyses. A total of 98 adults living with the autoimmune disease took part in a survey that was created by Google Forms. The participants were sourced using an online support group for patients living with the illness. The analyses showed that the patient’s illness perception significantly predicted their stress levels and coping self-efficacy. The length of time the patient has been living with type 1 diabetes significantly predicted their stress levels but did not significantly predict their coping self-efficacy. There was no statistical significance on the role of training in relation to the patient’s illness perception, coping self-efficacy and stress. The importance of patient adherence and social support are discussed throughout.