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Digging Deeper: The Role of Qualitative Research in Behavioral Diabetes

  • Psychosocial Aspects (Korey Hood, Section Editor)
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Abstract

Qualitative research methodology is more recognized and valued in diabetes behavioral research in recent years. Qualitative methods help clinicians answer questions that quantitative research may not be able to answer, such as exploring patients’ motivations, perceptions, and expectations. This paper reviews recent (2005–present) rigorous qualitative studies of children, adolescents, and adult patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes with the aim of answering the following research question: How has qualitative research contributed to our understanding of behavioral diabetes care? We focus on studies exploring patients’, health care providers’, and families’ interpersonal experiences of diabetes as well as patients’ psychosocial experiences of diagnosis and treatment, self-care, complications, and cultural factors. After reviewing the research in each area, we conclude by discussing how qualitative research contributes to our increased understanding of behavioral diabetes.

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Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Joslin Diabetes Center, MH Unit, Office 212, 1 Joslin Place, Boston, MA, 02115, USA

    Marilyn D. Ritholz

  2. Joslin Diabetes Center, Suite 350, 1 Joslin Place, Boston, MA, 02115, USA

    Elizabeth A. Beverly & Katie Weinger

  3. Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA

    Marilyn D. Ritholz, Elizabeth A. Beverly & Katie Weinger

  4. Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA, USA

    Marilyn D. Ritholz

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  1. Marilyn D. Ritholz
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  2. Elizabeth A. Beverly
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  3. Katie Weinger
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Correspondence to Marilyn D. Ritholz.

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Ritholz, M.D., Beverly, E.A. & Weinger, K. Digging Deeper: The Role of Qualitative Research in Behavioral Diabetes. Curr Diab Rep 11, 494–502 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11892-011-0226-7

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11892-011-0226-7

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