The Influence of Family Communication Patterns and Sociodemographic Factors on Caregiver Decision-Making in Managing Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31436/ijcs.v8i3.465Keywords:
Caregivers, Diabetes, Communication, Decision-making, SociodemographicAbstract
Background: Family caregivers play a crucial role in managing Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) by facilitating communication and decision-making. This role is vital in overcoming barriers such as limited health literacy and conflicting decisions, thereby enhancing care strategies and patient outcomes. This study aimed to examine the influence of family communication patterns and sociodemographic factors on caregiver decision-making in managing Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.
Methods: A descriptive analytical design with a cross-sectional approach was employed, involving 324 family caregivers of patients with T2DM from 14 Public Health Centers in Malang City, Indonesia, selected through a cluster random sampling technique. Communication patterns were assessed using the Family Communication Patterns (FCP) questionnaire, while decision-making was measured using the Family Decision-Making Self-Efficacy Scale. Statistical analyses were performed using Spearman’s rank correlation and multiple logistic regression.
Results: A total of 51.5% of respondents demonstrated favorable communication patterns, and 60.5% exhibited effective decision-making. The analysis revealed a statistically significant correlation between communication patterns and caregiver decision-making (p=0.000, r=0.341). The most influential sociodemographic factor affecting both variables was family educational background.
Conclusion: The study indicates that open and participatory family communication patterns are associated with more effective caregiver decision-making, while restricted communication is linked to less accurate decisions. These findings highlight the need for intervention strategies that strengthen family communication and address sociodemographic factors. However, experimental studies are required to further examine the causal effects of such interventions on diabetes care outcomes.
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