Heuristic model linking contextual processes to self-management in African American adults with type 2 diabetes.
This article examines the influence of various environmental factors on the diabetes self-care practices of African American adults with type 2 diabetes.



A heuristic model was developed that considers how community barriers and supports, availability and use of insurance, diabetes education, medical provider-patient relationships, extended family processes, and psychological functioning may indirectly affect metabolic control through the patient's ability to regulate diabetes.



The proposed model offers a framework to demonstrate the complexity of diabetes management that may be unique to the African American experience.



A comprehensive view of the environmental context will lead to new and more effective approaches in diabetes education and counseling for African American adults with type 2 diabetes.
Brody
G H
GH
The Institute for Behavioral Re­ search, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia (Drs Brody, Murry, and Landers­ Potts)
Jack
L
L
The Division of Diabetes Trans­lation, National Center for Chronic Dis­ease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Preven­tion, Atlanta, 
Georgia (DrJack and Ms Liburd)
Murry
V M
VM
The Institute for Behavioral Re­ search, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia (Drs Brody, Murry, and Landers­ Potts)
Landers-Potts
M
M
The Institute for Behavioral Re­ search, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia (Drs Brody, Murry, and Landers­ Potts)
Liburd
L
L
The Division of Diabetes Trans­lation, National Center for Chronic Dis­ease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Preven­tion, Atlanta, 
Georgia (DrJack and Ms Liburd)
D001741:Black or African American; D003924:Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 / Q000523:psychology*; D005845:Georgia; D006801:Humans; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations; D012648:Self Care; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors