COPING WITH ASTHMA IN ADULTHOOD: RELATIONSHIP TO SEVERITY OF ASTHMA AND LIFE SATISFACTION (LOCUS OF CONTROL, SOCIAL SUPPORT)
Abstract
The impact of chronic bronchial asthma on the lives of women was investigated in terms of the specific day-to-day problems imposed by this chronic and unpredictable pulmonary disease. Cognitive-behavioral coping strategies, locus of control orientation, and social supports were examined in relationship to asthma severity and life satisfaction. A field survey method utilizing a structured interview technique was used to study 70 adult female outpatients recruited from the private medical practices of asthma specialists in a large Oregon city. Study variables were assessed using the Method and Focus of Coping Index, the Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scales, the Inventory of Socially Supportive Behaviors, a social satisfaction rating, the Asthma Interference Scale, Life Satisfaction Index A, and physicians' ratings of asthma severity. Over half of the women identified limitations on physical exercise as a major problem associated with having asthma. Other frequently mentioned difficulties included interference with daily activities, fatigue, irritation related to others' cigarette smoking, and drug side effects. The quantitative analysis of the data was based upon computation of Pearson product-moment correlations and three multiple regression equations. In all, five multifaceted hypotheses were tested. The data provided little empirical support for these hypotheses. Two general relationships were found, however. Better physical condition was associated with the use of active behavioral coping methods. The most significant correlate of life satisfaction was the extent to which the women were satisfied with the amount and quality of their social relationships. The associations between the variables differed depending upon the women's educational attainment. Loevinger's theory of ego development was proposed as a possible explanation for these differences. Implications for treatment were discussed.
Degree
Ph.D.
Subject Area
Psychotherapy
Off-Campus Purdue Users:
To access this dissertation, please log in to our
proxy server.