Reactions to diabetes and their relationship to time orientation

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationships between psychosocial adaptation to chronic illness and time orientation among the individuals diagnosed with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Participants (N=106) were recruited via an on-line survey and an on-site health fair. Data were obtained from responses to the Reactions to Impairment and Disability Inventory and the Zimbardo Time Perspective Inventory. A series of hierarchical multiple regression analyses were performed to examine the influence of demographic- and disability-related variables, followed by a set of five time-perspective scales, on a series of psychosocial reactions to disability (anxiety, depression, anger, denial and adjustment). Findings indicated that reactions of anxiety, depression and anger were best predicted by negative perceptions of the past, whereas reactions of depression and anger also were predicted by negative views of the present. In addition, anger was associated with a decreased future orientation. Denial was best predicted by fatalistic perception of the present and, to a lesser extent, by restricted view of the future. Finally, adjustment was best predicted by positive perceptions of the present, by an expanded view of the future and by avoiding a negative view of the present. Challenging negative perceptions of the past and present, whereas facilitating a future time orientation, could be beneficial in helping clients to cope successfully with their medical conditions.