Adherence in childhood diabetes: results of a confirmatory factor analysis

Health Psychol. 1990;9(4):493-501. doi: 10.1037//0278-6133.9.4.493.

Abstract

In an earlier study (Johnson, Silverstein, Rosenbloom, Carter, & Cunningham, 1986), an exploratory factor analysis identified five components of adherence in childhood diabetes. In this investigation, a simultaneous confirmatory analysis was used to test the equality of this factor pattern across two independent samples. Factors 1 through 4--Exercise, Injection, Diet Type, and Eating/Testing Frequency-were confirmed. Factor 5--Diet Amount--proved to be too complex; the adherence measures comprising this factor (total calories and concentrated sweets consumed) are best treated as separate, single-indicator constructs. The results support a multivariate conceptualization of adherence, offer insight into the nature of the components underlying diabetes adherence, and provide measurement information for reliable component estimation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Child
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1 / psychology*
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1 / therapy
  • Female
  • Health Behavior
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Patient Compliance*
  • Sick Role*