Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the asthma-related beliefs and locus of control held by parents of pediatric patients with asthma and to evaluate how the parents' beliefs compare with those held by health care providers. Items from three validated questionnaires regarding asthma beliefs, locus of control, and parent satisfaction were administered to a convenience sample of parents of children with asthma attending the University of Florida Pediatric Pulmonary Clinic. Provider questionnaires were placed in the division mailboxes of health care providers and were returned anonymously. Surveys were obtained from 112 parents and 14 providers. Parents believed less than providers that asthma was a chronic illness, but more than providers that asthma interfered with their children's lives. Parents believed more strongly than healthcare providers that providers, fate, and God played stronger roles in their child's life. Paradoxically, parents emphasized certain aspects of providers ' control and abilities more than providers themselves did. These findings help explain why parents may not adhere to treatment recommendations and provide target areas for intervention. (Pediatr Asthma Allergy Immunol 2007; 20[1]:36–47.)
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