Proposed Model to Understand Coping Mechanisms Development in Athletes Living with Type 1 Diabetes to Address Physical Activity Barriers
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Date
2024
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Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers
Abstract
Background and Aims: Individuals with Type 1 diabetes (T1D) often face distinct hurdles in high‐performance sports, with some athletes using coping mechanisms that remain poorly understood. This study explores the significance of these coping mechanisms in overcoming T1D‐related barriers in competitive physical activities among young and adult patients in Chile. By delving into these mechanisms, the study aims to bridge knowledge gaps in T1D management within high‐performance sports, ultimately promoting physical activity for individuals with T1D. Methods: An interdisciplinary patient‐centered approach was employed in this study. In‐depth interviews were conducted with thirty competitive athletes with T1D who participated in any Olympic sport at a competitive level. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using QcaMap. Thematic analysis was carried out by professionals from behavioral sciences and design to comprehensively examine the coping mechanisms of the participants. Results: The study reveals three key insights for T1D self‐management in high‐performance sports: negative influences driving competitive training motivation, physical coping mechanisms for diabetes, and positive outcomes impacting performance. Examined through psychological behavior theory, these insights deepen our understanding of T1D management in sports. Conclusions: This research provides insights into how athletes with T1D overcome physical activity barriers, offering a model for understanding strategies. These insights can guide inclusive design solutions to promote physical activity in T1D, linking behavioral science and design. This interdisciplinary approach contributes to health psychology and design management, potentially enhancing lives and athletic performance of individuals with T1D while inspiring innovations in diabetes care and physical activity promotion.