Prediction of self-management behavior among iranian women with type 2 diabetes: Application of the theory of reasoned action along with self-efficacy (ETRA)

Continuous performing of diabetes self-care behaviors was shown to be an effective strategy to
control diabetes and to prevent or reduce its- related complications. This study aimed to investigate predictors of
self-care behavior based on the extended theory of reasoned action by self efficacy (ETRA) among women with
type 2 diabetes in Iran.
Methods: A sample of 352 women with type 2 diabetes, referring to a Diabetes Clinic in Khoy, Iran using the nonprobability
sampling was enrolled. Appropriate instruments were designed to measure the variables of interest
(diabetes knowledge, personal beliefs, subjective norm, self-efficacy and behavioral intention along with self- care
behaviors). Reliability and validity of the instruments using Cronbach’s alpha coefficients (the values of them were
more than 0.70) and a panel of experts were tested.
Results: A statistical significant correlation existed between independent constructs of proposed model and modelrelated
dependent constructs, as ETRA model along with its related external factors explained 41.5% of variance of
intentions and 25.3% of variance of actual behavior. Among constructs of model, self-efficacy was the strongest
predictor of intentions among women with type 2 diabetes, as it lonely explained 31.3% of variance of intentions and
11.4% of variance of self-care behavior.
Conclusion: The high ability of the extended theory of reasoned action with self-efficacy in forecasting and
explaining diabetes mellitus self management can be a base for educational intervention. So to improve diabetes
self management behavior and to control the disease, use of educational interventions based on proposed model
is suggested.