PROJECT SUMMARY
This study is designed to address the alarmingly low rate of disease self-management that has resulted
in the current disproportionate chronic illness, specifically type 2 diabetes (T2D), burden borne by Black/African
American males. Black/African American males have the highest mortality rates from preventable conditions
due, in part, to a low rate of health care utilization. Following the social ecological model, it is vital to understand
the social influences and social networks that impact T2D self-management. Strengthening relationships and
creating behavior reinforcement loops has improved T2D self-management and social measures such as coping
and self-efficacy. Broader social networks play a significant role in chronic disease management, yet a gap
remains in the literature regarding the identification of these networks, and understanding how these networks
evolve over time, specifically among Black/African American males. Therefore, there is a critical need to identify
the aspects of social networks that are associated with T2D self-management and support among Black/African
American males. Such newfound knowledge about the influence of interpersonal, community, and societal
sociocultural environments can result in the development of novel, effective strategies to improve T2D self-
management compliance and health outcomes in Black/African American males.
Our long-term goal is to develop culturally- and socially-relevant dyadic relationship intervention points
to improve T2D self-management among Black/African American men with T2D. Our overall objectives in this
application are to establish the aspects of social networks related to healthy self-management practices as well
as characterize their formation and evolution. To accomplish these objectives, we will use a convergent mixed
methods approach to determine significant aspects of social networks identified by using social network analysis
and in-depth qualitative interviews. First, we will recruit a nationally representative sample of 1,200 Black/African
American males with T2D using Qualtrics research panels to determine significant associations between T2D
management their social relationships. Next, a cohort of 65 Black/African American males from the national
sample will be asked to participate in longitudinal qualitative interviewing regarding their social networks with two
follow-ups at six months and one year. The rationale for this project is that determining the aspects of one’s
network that promotes self-management will provide the groundwork for intervention studies to improve T2D
self-management within a population with health disparities. To achieve our long-term goal and objectives, the
following specific aims will be pursued: 1) Identify specific aspects of dyadic relationships within select domains
(family, friends, neighbors, church, other) among Black/African American male social networks related to T2D
self-management adherence; 2) Characterize the formation and evolution of dyadic relationships that result in
improved T2D self-maintenance strategy adherence among Black/African American males.
