The relationship among emotional intelligence, self -management and glycemic control in individuals with type 1 diabetes

Background. Diabetes brings with it a regimen that has a major impact on an individual's daily life Results from the Diabetes Complication and Control Trial (DCCT) note that insulin dependent diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease requiring intensive daily management. This ten-year trial provides unarguable evidence of the importance of self-management. The findings of the DCCT have been widely publicized, yet many individuals continue to manage their diabetes very poorly. A significant nursing problem encountered in the care of patients is the "why" behind an individual's application or non-application of self-management. Although there has been a great deal of speculation about what influences self-management, the application of the emotional intelligence model provides new insight into this familiar nursing problem.;Objective. This dissertation research examined the relationship among emotional intelligence, self-management, and glycemic control in adults with type 1 diabetes.;Method. A descriptive correlational study design was employed. A sample of 90 adults with type 1 diabetes was obtained from a hospital affiliated diabetes center and via networking. The Multifactor Emotional Intelligence Scale was utilized to measure total and four branch scores of emotional intelligence. The Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities was utilized to measure self-management.;Results. Data provided partial support for hypothesis 1, in adults with type 1 diabetes, there is a significant relationship between emotional intelligence and self-management practices; support for hypothesis 2, in adults with type 1 diabetes, there is a significant relationship between emotional intelligence and glycemic control in nudes only; and partial support for hypothesis 3; in adults with type 1 diabetes, there is a significant relationship between self-management practices and glycemic control.;Conclusions. This study has added to the knowledge regarding the factors that influence self-management behavior. The data generated in this exploratory study are a beginning effort to see the relationship of emotional intelligence, self-management, and glycemic control and provide an impetus to look beyond what has traditionally been examined in the hopes of gaining a better understanding of self-management. Emotional intelligence may be a factor in enriching this understanding.