The overall goal of this study was to examine factors in African Americans that account for the variance in diabetes self-care, a proxy measure for functional status. A descriptive correlational design was used to study a sample of 133 adult African Americans with diabetes. The protocol included measures of psychosocial adjustment, self-efficacy, and functional status. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, stepwise multiple regression and T-tests. The analysis revealed positive attitudes and adjustment to having diabetes, a high level of self-confidence, and low functional status. Women compared to men scored higher on "negative attitude," and had greater problems with components comprising psychosocial adjustment to their diabetes and its related care. A description of socio-demographic data enhanced data collection. Level of formal education, which consistently correlated with various components of functional status was concluded to be the most significant variable associated with a good functional status outcome for African Americans with diabetes.