The Perceived Impact of Diabetes Support Groups
Published 2011 · R. Garofalo
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Abstract
A dearth of research exists describing the perceived impact of diabetes support groups from the perspective of support group participants. This study examined the subjective experience of being a participant in a diabetes support group upon a person's physical and emotional well being. Participants were recruited from a diabetes support group and interviewed individually through a series of open ended interview questions. The participants reported various physical and emotional challenges related to their diabetes. The support group was a source of information, hope, shared experience and group problem solving as individuals strived to maintain lifestyle behaviors required to manage their diabetes. This support group was a positive source of support for these participants. More studies, with larger sample sizes, examining support group interventions or strategies would be beneficial in order to gain an understanding of which aspects of a support group promote positive client outcomes. Advanced practice nurses play a pivotal role in designing further studies that examine the impact of support groups. This will enhance our understanding of a support group's role in sustaining and promoting positive health behaviors and well being. In order to continue this form of support in the community, health policy needs to address the funding of this resource to sustain it as a tertiary intervention in the future. Acknowledgements First and foremost, I am thankful to Dr. Joanne Costello, my major advisor, for her guidance and expertise on this project. Her knowledge of a subject most near and dear to her has enlightened my awareness and understanding of this very important and significant public health issue. Her expertise in qualitative research methods has been instrumental in this process and has provided a means in which I was able to conceptualize the lived experience of a person afflicted with diabetes. Secondly, I wish to thank Dr. Patricia Thomas, my second reader for her suggestions and insight. Her knowledge and general enthusiasm is very much appreciated. Lastly, I would like to thank Maureen Boris RN MS, Certified Diabetes Outpatient Educator, not only for her guidance and expertise, but her willingness to welcome me into her beloved diabetes support group. Many others have inspired and assisted me in pursuit of a graduate degree for which I am grateful. This experience at Rhode Island College has enriched my depth of knowledge and has fostered my appreciation of the art and science of nursing.