Testing the theory of planned behaviour among adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to validate Ajzen's theory of planned behaviour to explain the reported frequency of diabetes self-care activities. A random sample of patients (N=200) having type 2 diabetes mellitus registered in the local general hospital who were selected, resulted in a 50% response rate (n=100). Data was collected by means of a structured interview schedule. Seven days later telephone interviews were performed to collect patients' record of behaviour. Content validity of the tool was performed, followed by reliability testing using both test re-test method and Cronbach's Alpha (0.957). Analysis of the quantitative data was performed by using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings revealed positive attitude scores towards all the diabetes self-care behaviour. The more behavioural control each individual had towards diabetes self-care, the more he showed positive attitude towards that behaviour. Most participants agreed with the opinions and support from significant others in relation to diabetes self-care activities. Participants showed higher self-efficacy than controllability in performing behaviour. They feel more confident in performing the behaviour than they feel they are in control of it. Participants showed the highest perceived behavioural control with medication taking but gave low scores in exercise and dietary behaviour. Similarly, in the self-care activities performed, participants performed better with medication taking than with exercise and dietary intake. Results of this research study validated the theory of planned behaviour. Findings showed a direct significant relationship between attitudes and behavioural intention, between subjective norms and behavioural intention and a stronger relationship between perceived behavioural control and behavioural intention. Findings showed that 50% of the variance in behavioural intention is accounted for by the combination of attitudes, subjective norms and perceived behavioural control. Results also showed a positive relationship between the behavioural intention and the actual behaviour performed. A strong significant relationship between perceived behavioural control and behaviour performed was also shown in this study. The results highlighted a number of recommendations to be initiated in the management of diabetes care. The possibility of developing scales to measure attitudes with reference to specific self-management behaviour, and considering the issue of the significant others in relation to diabetes behaviour. Health care professionals must individualize control strategies for self-management of diabetes care which could help to overcome personal barriers to enhance diabetes self-care management.