Date of Conferral
2021
Degree
Ph.D.
School
Public Health
Advisor
Patrick J. Dunn
Abstract
Diabetes self-management involves several behaviors to prevent complications and ensure a good quality of life. Several studies addressed how the COVID-19 lockdown impacted diabetes self-management practices worldwide, yet little was known about self-management experiences in Grenada and the Caribbean region. The purpose of this phenomenological and directed content analysis study was to gain insight into the lived diabetes self-management experiences during the COVID-19 lockdown in Grenada. The theory of planned behavior was used as the theoretical framework for this study. The research questions addressed lived self-management experiences and attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control toward diabetes self-management. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 13 Grenadian adults, age 35 to 65. Results were analyzed using descriptive coding and predetermined categories using the theory’s constructs (directed content analysis). Three overarching themes emerged: (a) diabetes self-management activities, (b) barriers, and (c) intentions to perform self-management behaviors. Results indicated that although participants had adequate social support, there was significant nonadherence toward exercise and diabetes foot care. Findings may be used to develop a multidisciplinary approach, especially from the government of Grenada, to improve self-management skills and attitudes, and to promote appropriate diabetes disaster planning for a future pandemic.
Recommended Citation
Smith, Pauline, "Diabetes Self-Management of Adults With Diabetes in Grenada During the COVID-19" (2021). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 11025.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/11025
