Using Mixed Methods Research in Children with Type 1 Diabetes: a Methodological Review

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.