<![CDATA[Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition that requires continuous self-management, particularly adherence to dietary recommendations. Poor dietary adherence remains a common challenge in primary health care settings, and self-motivation may play an important role in helping patients maintain healthy eating behaviors. This study aimed to determine the relationship between self-motivation and dietary adherence among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus at Dawan II Community Health Center. This quantitative study used a descriptive-correlational design with a cross-sectional approach. The sample consisted of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, selected through purposive sampling according to predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data were collected using structured questionnaires measuring self-motivation and dietary adherence, and analyzed using descriptive statistics and Spearman's rank correlation test. The findings showed that most respondents had high self-motivation and were categorized as adherent to dietary recommendations. The analysis indicated a significant positive relationship between self-motivation and dietary adherence, suggesting that patients with stronger internal motivation were more likely to follow recommended dietary behaviors. These findings highlight the importance of strengthening motivational support, individualized counseling, and family involvement in diabetes education programs at the primary health care level.]]>
