Life values and self‐regulation behaviours among adults with type 2 diabetes

Aim. The aim of this study was to identify life values in adults with type 2 diabetes and to describe their experiences of how these values may influence self‐regulation behaviours. Background. Daily self‐regulation behaviours have been described as challenging, because the individuals try to find a balance between them and life values. However, little is known about how life values may influence the motivation for necessary self‐regulation behaviours. Design and methods. A descriptive/explorative qualitative design that included focus groups was used to collect data. The sample consisted of 19 adults with type 2 diabetes. Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis. Results. The findings revealed six themes: maintaining health and longevity, a feeling of bodily well‐being, preserving a positive body image, self‐determination, maintaining the ability to work and belonging. The results reflect the fact that many life values have a major influence on self‐regulation behaviours. Conclusions. The findings indicate that several of the life values can conflict with self‐regulation behaviours, which in turn may influence the motivation for self‐regulation of type 2 diabetes. Some of these values could be considered to be related to self‐worth, which is regarded as an important motivational component for engaging in a task. Moreover, this study highlights the fact that goals related to self‐regulation behaviours were formulated in more general than in specific terms. Relevance to clinical practice. This study may help health professionals to understand how adults’ life values influence their motivation for adequate self‐regulation. The findings indicate that the existing support structures should make an effort to learn about people’s life values and take them into account when giving advice about self‐regulation behaviours. Moreover, people with type 2 diabetes should be supported by health professionals to set more specific self‐regulation goals that are consistent with their life values.