Critical moments in long-term condition management: a longitudinal qualitative social network study

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

76 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Objectives: Recent literature has demonstrated the nature and importance of social networks. This study aimed to understand how support needs of people with long-term conditions change over time and how this influences their ability to self-manage. Methods: A longitudinal qualitative design was used to explore changes in individual’s social networks over a period of year. Thirty participants were recruited and completed initial in-depth face-to-face interviews, telephone follow-ups, and final face-to-face interviews. Results: Findings illuminated that changes in health and changes in social networks can influence each other. The social networks implicated in the management of long-term conditions change over time at critical moments and can range between positive and negative reciprocal influences with self-management. Network changes, such as the breaking or reconnecting of ties influenced the context of health management and the degree of engagement with self-management activities. Discussion: By examining the specific processes of support and resource provision, this study highlights how overtime the variety of relationships and support available implicated in long-term condition management changes. This has implications for the provision of formal support services and the need for a wider range of support to be identified that recognises change in support requirements as self-management strategies evolve.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)119-134
Number of pages16
JournalChronic illness
Volume14
Issue number2
Early online date29 Jun 2017
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jun 2018

Keywords

  • Social networks
  • UK
  • long-term condition management
  • longitudinal
  • qualitative

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Critical moments in long-term condition management: a longitudinal qualitative social network study'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this