What is the idea behind peer-to-peer support in diabetes?

Simmons, D., Bunn, C. , Cohn, S. and Graffy, J. (2013) What is the idea behind peer-to-peer support in diabetes? Diabetes Management, 3(1), pp. 61-70. (doi: 10.2217/dmt.12.80)

Abstract

Peer support has been proposed as a means of improving the physical and mental health of people with diabetes, but what is ‘peer support’? A literature review revealed that use of the term is a recent phenomenon that has gained momentum over the last two decades and refers to a plethora of interventions. Two dimensions are apparent: the nature of the support given (lying between instructing and confounding) and the interpersonal relationship created (lying between paraprofessional and companion). There is a clear tendency to confuse peer support with educational or self-management programs, and tension exists where imposed structures can inhibit the inherently unstructured nature of peer support. However, peer support can act as a useful adjuvant to service provision, providing that the flexibility inherent in allowing patients to negotiate the meaning of their experiences together is maintained.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Bunn, Dr Christopher
• Authors: Simmons, D., Bunn, C., Cohn, S., and Graffy, J.
• Subjects: H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General); R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine > RA0421 Public health. Hygiene. Preventive Medicine
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Social Scientists working in Health and Wellbeing; College of Social Sciences > School of Social and Political Sciences
• Journal Name: Diabetes Management
• Publisher: Future Medicine
• ISSN: 1758-1907
• ISSN (Online): 1758-1915