Lived Experiences Involving Self-Efficacy Among African American Women Receiving Cardiac Peer Support

Date of Conferral

10-26-2023

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Public Health

Advisor

David Segal

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death among African American (AA) women in the United States. While there have been advances and more widespread use of peer-to-peer (P2P) support strategies to improve self-management skills among CVD patients, these approaches have not affected AA women, who continue to die from heart disease at significantly high rates. The purpose of this study was to examine real-life experiences of AA women with hypertensive heart disease who receive P2P support and the effect of that support on self-efficacy and cardiac health. The health belief model and social cognitive learning theory were the theoretical framework for the study. A qualitative phenomenological approach with semistructured recorded video conference interviews was used to explore lived experiences and perceptions of a purposeful sample of AA women between 20 and 61 with hypertensive heart disease who have participated in online peer support groups. Thematic analysis revealed AA women welcomed and appreciated P2P support groups, felt empowered due to benefits obtained from these groups, perceived a reduction in cardiac episodes and hospital admissions with the addition of P2P support, and received guidance from primary care providers that supplemented benefits from P2P support groups. These findings indicate that P2P support groups for AA women suffering from CVD may help improve their self-care management and lead to positive social change for this population. Recommendations include more P2P support, both in person and online formats, with guidance from primary care and mental health providers to positively affect lives of AA women afflicted with CVD.

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