Effect of Risk Perception on Quality of Life among Diabetics. Moderator Role of Psychological Adjustment

Abstract

The current study aimed to investigate the relationship between risk perception, quality of life, and psychological adjustment and to see if locality plays any role in this relationship. The correlational study was conducted at the Department of Psychology, University of Sargodha, and Punjab, Pakistan. By using purposive sampling, an equal number of male diabetics and female diabetics of different localities were selected. Risk Perception Survey for Diabetes Mellitus, Diabetic Quality of Life, and Psychological Adjustment to Diabetes Scale were used for evaluation. Statistical analysis was run by using SPSS 21. Of the 150 subjects in the study, 75 (50%) each were female and male diabetics. Risk perception and its subscale were negatively correlated with quality of life (r = -.42, p < .001) and psychological adjustment (r = -.24, p < .01). There is a significantly positive relationship between quality of life and psychological adjustment (r = .48, p < .001). Risk perception (β =-.42, t = -5.6, p < .001) and psychological adjustment were significant predictors of quality of life (β = .48, t = 6.59, p < .001). Psychological adjustment significantly moderated the relationship between risk perception and quality of life (β = .45, p < .001).  There were significant differences among diabetics belonging to urban areas and rural areas (p < .05). There was no significant gender difference in the three variables (p > .05). Risk perception and psychological adjustment were significant predictors of quality of life among diabetics. Psychological adjustment significantly moderated the relationship between risk perception and quality of life among diabetics.