Reconsidering your perceptions: exploring the lifeworld of a young person with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Pulman, A., Hill, J and Masding, M
Conference: Diabetes UK Professional Conference
Abstract:Introduction Views of young people with type 1 diabetes are vital in developing quality services, yet research on their lifestyle and use of web and mobile technology to support their condition is sparse. We aimed to develop a deeper understanding of the perspective of a young person with type 1 diabetes and construct a picture of their lifeworld. Methods Data collected by semi-structured, in-depth qualitative interviews (n=9) of people with type 1 diabetes aged 18-21. Interviews were transcribed and loaded onto the qualitative data analysis tool NVivo.
Results A number of themes emerged, including:
• The effects of technology on living with diabetes. • Use of social media, mobile phones and Apps to obtain information and support.
- Feelings about the health services they used.
We also uncovered several interesting issues that concern patients in this age group:
• Understanding the isolation that young people might feel at this age.
- Personal attitudes to type 1 diabetes and initiating improvement. • Fear, discomfort and being seen as different.
- Why we might embrace and show negative views of the condition.
- Rethinking the use of Facebook.
Summary We obtained a deeper and more empathetic understanding of the feelings of young people with type 1 diabetes, and the issues that are important to them. This data will be used to look at local services, producing more effective systems for support and self-management which take into account the feelings of patients and make them more likely to engage with technology.
https://eprints.bournemouth.ac.uk/20757/
Source: Manual
Preferred by: Andy Pulman
