Relationship between motivational style and glycemic control in Jordanian patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Background Although, there is increased recognition of the importance of blood glucose control and diabetes education in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), the relationship between motivation and long term outcomes, glycemic control, are lacking. The primary aims of the present study were to: (i) describe the motivational style of Jordanian patients with T2DM regarding self‐care management, taking medications, and self‐monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG), as well as following therapeutic dietary instructions and exercising regularly; and b) examine the significance of these factors in predicting glycemic control. Methods A package including a treatment self‐regulation questionnaire concerning diabetes, was administered to a convenience sample of 110 patients with T2DM. In addition, the most recent HbA1c results were extracted from the patients' medical records. Results Fifty‐eight patients (52.7 %) reported being intrinsically motivated with regard to taking medication and regular SMBG, whereas half the participants (50 %) were intrinsically motivated to follow therapeutic dietary instructions and regular exercise. Patients who were intrinsically motivated were 8.3‐fold more likely (95 % confidence interval [CI] 1.44–47.86) to have glycemic control than those reporting extrinsic motivation. In addition, those who were intrinsically motivated to follow therapeutic dietary instructions and exercise regularly were 10.50‐fold more likely (95 % CI 2.50–48.78) times more likely to report glycemic control than those reporting extrinsic motivation. Conclusion Interventional strategies should focus on promoting intrinsic motivation in order to enhance glycemic control.