Self-concept and health locus of control: factors related to children's adherence to recommended asthma regimen

Abstract

Purpose: To determine the relationships of adherence to daily peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) monitoring, recommended for asthma self-management, with self-concept and health locus of control in a sample of 42 children, ages 7 through 11.

Design/methods: Secondary analysis was conducted on data collected as part of our 5-week randomized, controlled asthma self-management clinical trial. During the study, the Piers-Harris Children's Self-Concept Scale (PHCSC) and Children's Health Locus of Control Scale (CHLOC) were administered at baseline (Week 1) and Week 5 for comparison, while adherence to electronically-measured peak flow monitor (PFM) was evaluated during Week 5.

Results: Adherence was positively correlated with higher self-concept (r(s) = .33, p = .03) and internal health locus of control (r(s) = .30, p = .05). Adherence to PFM and the intellectual and anxiety subscales of the PHCSC also were positively associated (r(s) = .38, p = .01, in both cases).

Conclusions: Children who have a positive self-concept, particularly in the areas of intellect and anxiety, are more adherent to their recommended asthma regimen. Similarly, those who perceive their ability to control their health more positively adhere better to daily PEFR monitoring. These results suggest that children's adherence interventions may need to include components aimed at enhancing self-concept and health locus of control.