Personality Predictors of Diabetes Type 2 Management : A Study of Male and Female Type 2 Diabetes Patients

The purpose of this research was to study to find out the role of personality factors in diabetes type2 management among male and female patients. Diabetes Management has been considered with respect to diet, exercise, glucose testing and medication. The summary of diabetes self care activities (SDSCA) by Toobert and Glasgow (1994) was utilized to evaluate self care practices of type 2 diabetes patients. Second order personality factor were measured, with the help of 16PFquestionnaire developed by Cattell. Second order personality factor were divided into four dimensions, which are Factor I (Adjustment vs. Anxiety), Factor II (Introversion vs. Extraversion), Factor III (Tender minded vs. Alert poise), Factor IV (Subduedness vs. Independence). Regression analysis was computed to analyze data, obtained from the sample of male (40) and female (40) diabetic patients, separately. It is observed that personality second order “Factor III” has significant role in determining the diet management among male patients. Second order “Factor II and IV” of 16PF contribute significantly role in exercise management and also “Factor III” for glucose testing management among female patients. The positive relationship on Factor III indicates that male patients who are enterprising, decisive, and resilient personality will be better diet management among male diabetic patients. The negative relationship on Factor II and positive relationship on Factor IV indicate that female patients who are shy, self sufficient, and inhibited in interpersonal contacts and an aggressive, independent, daring, incisive person will be better manage exercise and the positive relationship on Factor III indicates that female patients who are an enterprising, decisive, and resilient personality will be better manage glucose testing.