Illness perceptions in Turkish migrants with diabetes: a qualitative study
Yüce Yilmaz-Aslan1, Patrick Brzoska, Martina Bluhm
11Department of Epidemiology and International Public Health, School of Public Health, Bielefeld University, Bielefeld, Germany.
Chronic Illness
|August 30, 2013
Summary
This study validates the self-regulatory model of illness for Turkish migrants with type 2 diabetes in Germany. Findings confirm illness perception dimensions align with the model, suggesting tailored interventions can improve health outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Medical Sociology
- Health Psychology
- Migration Health
Background:
- Illness perceptions are typically understood through the self-regulatory model.
- Limited research exists on illness perceptions within Turkish populations.
- The validity of the self-regulatory model for this demographic remains unconfirmed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the validity of the self-regulatory model of illness.
- To examine illness perceptions in chronically ill Turkish migrants in Germany.
- To use type 2 diabetes mellitus as a case example.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with 24 Turkish migrants.
- Participants had self-reported diabetes and were recruited via key informants.
- Data analysis involved a hermeneutic approach and content analysis to develop categories.
Main Results:
- Seven core dimensions of illness perceptions were identified.
- These dimensions included perceived timeline, consequences, causes, and controllability of diabetes.
- Identity/coherence and emotional response to the condition were also key aspects.
Conclusions:
- The identified illness perception dimensions align with the self-regulatory model of illness.
- This supports the model's applicability to chronically ill Turkish migrants.
- Tailored interventions addressing illness perceptions could enhance healthcare and health outcomes for this population.
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