Abstract
Individuals with diabetes on insulin for at least one year, were studied in regard to styles of coping with stress and metabolic control of their disease. Those in good control used self-con trolling and avoiding styles of coping; whereas, those in poor control more often used fight/anger reactions to stress. Findings suggest self-controlling behaviors might be enhanced and anger/fight reactions to stress reduced through self-management programs. Such programs would be designed to increase self-efficacy through setting of achievable short-term goals with rein forcement of positive behaviors, modeling of successful coping styles, and attention to relaxation and stress reduction techniques.