Learning Objective #1: Evaluate the usefulness of self-determination theory and personality theory in investigating the phenomenon of adherence

Learning Objective #2: Identify how selected variables influenced a sample of women in their adherence to health care regimens

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Health care providers are expected to attempt to assist women with chronic health conditions to adhere to health care regimens in order to maximize client health status. However, nonadherence is common and problematic. This study, set within self-determination theory and personality theory, had a descriptive, correlational, longitudinal design. With a sample of 107 women the relationship between 13 variables and subsequent adherence to health care regimens (diet, physical activity, and medication) was examined. Measurement tools and interviews were used to gather data, usually in the homes of participants, during the initial data-gathering session (Time 1) and 6 weeks after the initial session (Time 2). The independent variables contributing a significant amount of unique variance to adherence at Time 1 and Time 2 included autonomous motivation, conscientiousness, and depressive symptomatology. Women adhered to a greater degree to medication regimens than to diet and physical activity regimens. The practicality of a screening tool for clinical practice to identify the degree to which nonadherence may be a challenge for a given patient and the primary health care provider was supported.