Life values and self-regulation behaviours among adults with type 2 diabetes

The aim of this study was to identify life values in adults with type 2 diabetes and to describe their experiences of how these values may influence self-regulation behaviours.

Daily self-regulation behaviours have been described as challenging, because the individuals try to find a balance between them and life values. However, little is known about how life values may influence the motivation for necessary self-regulation behaviours.

A descriptive/explorative qualitative design that included focus groups was used to collect data. The sample consisted of 19 adults with type 2 diabetes. Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis.

The findings revealed six themes: maintaining health and longevity, a feeling of bodily well-being, preserving a positive body image, self-determination, maintaining the ability to work and belonging. The results reflect the fact that many life values have a major influence on self-regulation behaviours.

The findings indicate that several of the life values can conflict with self-regulation behaviours, which in turn may influence the motivation for self-regulation of type 2 diabetes. Some of these values could be considered to be related to self-worth, which is regarded as an important motivational component for engaging in a task. Moreover, this study highlights the fact that goals related to self-regulation behaviours were formulated in more general than in specific terms.

This study may help health professionals to understand how adults' life values influence their motivation for adequate self-regulation. The findings indicate that the existing support structures should make an effort to learn about people's life values and take them into account when giving advice about self-regulation behaviours. Moreover, people with type 2 diabetes should be supported by health professionals to set more specific self-regulation goals that are consistent with their life values.