A MODEL OF SELF-REGULATION IN ADOLESCENTS WITH FOOD ALLERGY

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to test a model explaining how cognitive and emotional factors relate to adolescents’ abilities to successfully manage their own food allergies. It was hypothesized that higher scores on cognitive and emotional symptoms scales would predict lower scores in self-regulation of food allergy and in treatment adherence. One hundred and six adolescents with food allergies (ages 12-19) were surveyed, with 61.8% reporting a past experience of anaphylaxis. Utilizing multiple linear regression and path models, results indicate cognitive and emotional variables significantly predict treatment adherence and whether adolescents take more responsibility for food allergy behaviors. Significant findings indicate the older an adolescent, the more they report food allergy self-regulatory behaviors, yet the lower their treatment adherence. Perceived barriers, susceptibility, and severity all significantly impact adolescents’ self-regulation and/or treatment adherence. Limitations, clinical implications,and areas of future research are discussed.