Developing a behavioral model for mobile phone-based diabetes interventions.
No Thumbnail Available
Date
2012-12-14
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Behavioral models for mobile phone based diabetes interventions are lacking This study explores the potential mechanisms by which a text message based diabetes program affected self management among African Americans METHODS We conducted in depth individual interviews among 18 African American patients with type 2 diabetes who completed a 4 week text message based diabetes program Each interview was audio taped transcribed verbatim and imported into Atlas ti software Coding was done iteratively Emergent themes were mapped onto existing behavioral constructs and then used to develop a novel behavioral model for mobile phone based diabetes self management programs RESULTS The effects of the text message based program went beyond automated reminders The constant daily communications reduced denial of diabetes and reinforced the importance of self management Rosenstock Health Belief Model Responding positively to questions about self management increased mastery experience Bandura Self Efficacy Most surprisingly participants perceived the automated program as a friend and support group that monitored and supported their self management behaviors Barrera Social Support CONCLUSIONS A mobile phone based diabetes program affected self management through multiple behavioral constructs including health beliefs self efficacy and social support PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Disease management programs that utilize mobile technologies should be designed to leverage existing models of behavior change and can address barriers to self management associated with health disparities