An Experiential Model of Learning Diabetes Self-Management

Abstract

The literature on self-management in diabetes consists predominantly of investigations on compliance, behavioral modification techniques, assessment of health beliefs, and cognitive theories. Little systematic research has explored the actual experience of applying and adapting to a diabetes regimen. This qualitative study reports a diabetes self-management model (DSMM) based on interview data from 18 adults with Type I diabetes. As described and confirmed by the study participants, the DSMM is composed of sequential phases and stages that evolve over time and is influenced by four major factors: personal considerations, monitoring activities, specific cognitive skills for diabetes problem solving, and definition of control. This study provides a model that affirms the experience and effort of learning self-management and recognizes the importance of individualized regimes developed from personal experiences and perceptions of what "works for me."