Gender Differences in Peer Support in Type 2 Diabetes Self-Management Across the Globe

Abstract

Objective: The effectiveness of peer support programs as a means to sustain self-management in patients with type 2 diabetes has been well documented. However, little is known of how gender differences in peer support might influence the provision and receipt of support. This study used the key functions of peer support as a framework to explore gender differences in peer support programs and identified gender-related issues and global cultural contexts that influence peer support. Methods: Qualitative data were generated through telephone interviews and written responses using open-ended questions to nine programs across the globe: Africa (Cameroon and Uganda), Asia (Cambodia, Hong Kong, Thailand, and Vietnam), and the United States (Alabama, California, and Illinois). Qualitative content analysis was done to achieve in-depth exploration of categories. Data were analyzed using INVIVO 10 software. Results: Five themes emerged: 1) Differences in emotional support: female peer supporters reportedly displayed more emotional support than any other form of support; 2) Differences in instrumental support: male peer supporters gave information as their primary form of support; 3) Who is a peer supporter: males dominated as peer supporters in two Asian countries (Cambodia and Hong Kong) and females dominated in African American and Latino peer support programs in the US; 4) Matching by gender: male peer supporters were assigned only male recipients, but female peer supporters could be assigned to either sex; 5) Gender differences in participant availability: there was considerable variety in how gender was manifest in programs and both peer supporters’ and participants’ responses to them. Conclusion: This study provided evidence that substantial gender differences and gender-related issues were present in all the peer support programs and that the manifestation of differences varied considerably across settings and cultures. Gender differences have to be taken into consideration when planning peer support programs.