Parents’ experiences of managing their child’s lifestyle behaviours to minimise difficulties associated with T1DM: A qualitative structured literature review

Abstract

Abstract Aim: The aim of this dissertation is to conduct a structured literature review (SLR) of qualitative studies to understand the experiences of parents when managing their child’s lifestyle behaviours, such as diabetes management and physical activity, to minimise the difficulties associated with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Background: The incidence of children affected by diabetes is growing every year worldwide. Therefore, to enhance and develop the lifestyle of children with diabetes, more data about their parents’ experiences are needed. Over time, T1DM significantly contributes towards damage to children eyes, kidneys, and other body parts and may also lead to premature death. Children with diabetes usually have difficulties associated with managing diabetes and levels of physical activity. Therefore, parents play an important role in minimising diabetes by managing the lifestyle behaviours of their children. Method: A SLR of qualitative studies from ProQuest Nursing, CINAHL, and MEDLINE was conducted to identify the related studies that answer the review question. A model of research terms applied for this review include the keywords ‘type 1 diabetes’, ‘parent*’, ‘experience*’, ‘perception*’ ‘attitude*’, ‘diabetes management, ‘exercise’ and ‘physical activity’. Research hits were consequently included or excluded based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Quality assessment and data extraction involved assessing each study against predetermined criteria. Thematic analysis underpinned data synthesis. Results: A total of six studies met the inclusion criteria. Thematic analysis of each study identified three common themes. The first theme presented data supporting the idea that parents of a child diagnosed with T1DM have a diverse range of experiences, specific challenges through managing uncertainty and coping with change. The second theme explored the concept of specific practice management challenges and lifestyle decisions made by parents. The third theme considered the support needs of parents with respect to providing optimal care and lifestyle management for their children. Conclusion: The importance of this SLR relates to the potential for parents to engage in positive activities to promote lifestyle changes that are valuable in managing T1DM. It is necessary to ensure that parents are monitored and supported from the initial period of diagnosis and throughout the complex journey children undergo as part of the T1DM disease process, as well as their own personal development. Preventative strategies such as diabetes management and physical activity play an important role in reducing the risk of complications (Quirk et al., 2014). However, excessive focus on these strategies can yield negative thought processes and behaviours, reflecting poor knowledge and support, which may add to the stress and distress experienced by the family unit (Blake, Silva & Glazebrook, 2018).