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Using Mixed Methods Research in Children with Type 1 Diabetes: a Methodological Review
Sara L Davis1, Sarah S Jaser2, Nataliya V Ivankova3
1Maternal Child Health Nursing, University of South Alabama, 5721 USA Dr N, Mobile, AL, 36688, USA. saradavis@southalabama.edu.
Insights
Mixed methods research (MMR) uniquely examines factors affecting type 1 diabetes (T1D) management in children. Limited studies exist, but future MMR could improve glycemic control and health outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Endocrinology
- Diabetes Research
Background:
- Type 1 diabetes (T1D) management in children involves complex factors influencing glycemic control.
- Traditional research methods (qualitative or quantitative) have limitations in studying these intricate aspects in pediatric populations.
- Mixed methods research (MMR) provides innovative approaches for investigating complex questions in children with T1D and their families.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and synthesize existing empirical mixed methods research (MMR) studies involving children with T1D.
- To identify themes, trends, and inconsistencies in the application of MMR in pediatric T1D research.
- To highlight the potential of MMR to enhance understanding and management of T1D in children.
Main Methods:
- A focused, methodological literature review was conducted.
- Twenty empirical MMR studies including children with T1D and/or their caregivers were identified and analyzed.
- Synthesis of findings to elicit common themes and methodological trends.
Main Results:
- Key themes identified in the reviewed MMR studies were disease management, intervention evaluation, and support systems.
- Significant inconsistencies were found in the reporting of MMR definitions, rationales, and study designs across the literature.
- A limited number of studies currently employ MMR to investigate concepts pertinent to children with T1D.
Conclusions:
- MMR offers a valuable framework for studying complex issues in pediatric T1D management.
- Addressing inconsistencies in MMR reporting is crucial for future research.
- Future MMR studies, particularly those incorporating child-reported data, hold promise for improving disease management and glycemic outcomes in children with T1D.
Purpose Of Review:
Many factors influence disease management and glycemic levels in children with type 1 diabetes (T1D). However, these concepts are hard to examine in children using only a qualitative or quantitative research paradigm. Mixed methods research (MMR) offers creative and unique ways to study complex research questions in children and their families.
Recent Findings:
A focused, methodological literature review revealed 20 empirical mixed methods research (MMR) studies that included children with T1D and/or their parents/caregivers. These studies were examined and synthesized to elicit themes and trends in MMR. Main themes that emerged included disease management, evaluation of interventions, and support. There were multiple inconsistencies between studies when reporting MMR definitions, rationales, and design. Limited studies use MMR approaches to examine concepts related to children with T1D. Findings from future MMR studies, especially ones that use child-report, may illuminate ways to improve disease management and lead to better glycemic levels and health outcomes.
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