Experiences Managing Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus among Parents of African-American Youth

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is one of the most frequently diagnosed endocrine and metabolic conditions that occur during childhood. This research study utilized a phenomenological study design to examine how the lived experiences of 20 African American (AA) parents of children with T1DM recruited using social media affects their management and control of the disease among AA youth age 5-17 years old. The interview questions were outlined in categories that tested key constructs of the health belief model (HBM) to determine the perceived barriers, seriousness, and susceptibility to maintaining good glycemic control for their children. Data from each interview was classified and coded to identify and categorize, and then used as codes. Themes were then developed in order to determine intent and importance of the responses. Three themes emerged: the disease\u27s impact on the life of the parents, its impact on the life of the child, and its social impact. The impact on the parents\u27 lives included financial burden and time management. The impact on the lives of the child included, the parent\u27s beliefs and fears about their child\u27s future with diabetes and their child\u27s ability to successfully manage their diabetes. The impact on the socialization for both the parent and the child, included family socialization, how others perceived diabetes and diabetes management, teaching diabetes management to others, and the parent\u27s trust in other\u27s ability to manage their child\u27s diabetes. The findings of this research study provides insight into population based needs for successful diabetes management, such as how to make healthier cultural and ethnic meals and the need for culturally-centered whole family diabetes education, to enhance family relationships and diabetes management