Factors associated with emerging adult self-disclosure and discussion of physical and psychological chronic health conditions

Abstract

The current study investigated the disclosure decision-making processes of emerging adults with physical and psychological chronic health conditions (CHCs). Emerging adults (N = 460, M_age = 21.90) with one or more CHCs completed the Illness Identity Questionnaire, the Satisfaction With Life Scale, and open-ended questions via online survey. Half of all participants reported regularly discussing their CHCs, regardless of condition type (i.e. physical vs psychological). Regular discussion of CHCs was associated with higher satisfaction with life, greater acceptance and enrichment illness identities, and lower rejection illness identity. Trust (32%), relating to others (19%), and being prompted (18%) were the most reported reasons for disclosure. Perceived lack of necessity (30%), maintenance of privacy (22%), and discomfort (13%) were the most reported reasons for non-disclosure. Future research should identify ways to promote emerging adults’ illness identity, comfort in discussing their CHCs with others, and satisfaction with life.