Effects of Family-Based Theory of Social Support on Perceived Support Levels in Type 2 Diabetic Patients

Social support is as the most effective agent in successfully coping with stressful circumstances. Considering the importance of healthcare at home for the patients with type 2 diabetes، family practice is fundamental to the quality of patient adaptation to problems، and consequences of the disease. The main aim of this study was to evaluate the status of perceived family support and some related factors in patients with type 2 diabetes.

A cross-sectional study was conducted. Random simple sampling method was used. The sample consisted of 113 patients who referred to the Sedigheh Tahereh Research Center. To complete the questionnaire in the days predetermined (randomly)، a personal interview was conducted with each of the patients. To evaluate the data analysis of variance، Pearson correlation and repeated measures ANOVA were used.

Of the 113 patients، 106 patients (81 women and 25 men) were entered into the analysis. The one-way ANOVA test showed there was a statistically significant difference in family support across economic levels (F = 3. 24، P < 0. 001). Analysis of variance with repeated measures، revealed significant differences between perceived family support aspects of patients'' self care behaviors (F = 39. 31، P < 0. 001). Results showed that the lowest and highest self-reported scores of perceived support، respectively، were related to drug treatment and general support.

The present study showed that patients’ perceived family support in drug treatment and adherence to diet was poor. Because of the importance of these two aspects in the treatment plan for patients، it is essential that family empowerment programs be considered.