Social support as a motivator of self‐management among adults with type 2 diabetes

Abstract

oftedal b, bru e & karlsen b (2011) Journal of Nursing and Healthcare of Chronic Illness 3, 12–22 Social support as a motivator of self‐management among adults with type 2 diabetesAim. This paper is a report of research on how people with type 2 diabetes perceive social support, how social support is associated with diet and exercise management, and the degree to which these relationships are mediated by the expectations people with type 2 diabetes have of their own ability.Background. Many people with type 2 diabetes have difficulties in motivating themselves to self‐manage diet and exercise. It has been suggested that the social support provided by healthcare practitioners, family and friends may be an essential contributor in motivating people with type 2 diabetes to adopt and maintain diet and exercise management. However, there has been little research to explore how social support interacts with motivation in the self‐management of type 2 diabetes.Methods. This study had a cross‐sectional design. The data were collected by a postal questionnaire assessing perceived social support as well as ability expectations, diet and exercise management. A sample comprising 425 adults aged 30–70 years with type 2 diabetes completed the questionnaire. The data were collected during September/October 2008.Results. The descriptive results showed that the majority of the participants reported constructive support from healthcare practitioners, whereas relatively few felt they had support from family and friends. Only modest associations were found between social support and self‐management. Some of the associations, however, were mediated by ability expectations. Associations of variables assessing social support with diet management were strongest among those who had the disease <6 years.Conclusions and relevance to clinical practice. Findings indicate that it is important for healthcare practitioners to consider the balance between empathic, non‐confrontational and confrontational approaches. For some people with type 2 diabetes, a more confrontational approach could be appropriate. They should also be aware that stimulating self‐management is challenging and complex and may depend on tailor‐made and ongoing support. Finally, findings suggest there is room for improvement in support from family and friends.