Ross-Gordon, Jovita M.Malek, Melanie Kay2023-12-162023-12-162006-03Malek, M.K. (2006). The quest for autonomy: Patient decision-making behaviors in type 2 diabetes (Unpublished dissertation). Texas State University-San Marcos, San Marcos, Texas.https://hdl.handle.net/10877/17722The purpose of this study was to examine the phenomenon of decision-making about exercise from the perspective of the patient with type 2 diabetes. Through the use of participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and the analysis of the Stages of Behavior Change Scale, the Diabetes Empowerment Scale, and the Cooper Clinic Physical Activity Questionnaire, this comparative cross-case analysis explored the social, clinical and contextual factors, as well as the barriers that influence patient decision-making. The relationship between autonomous regulation of exercise behavior and perceived competence to follow through with one's decisions to exercise by patients, and the concept of autonomy support on the part of healthcare practitioners were also established as important components to consider in the development of an effective diabetes patient education curriculum.Text383 pages1 file (.pdf)enpatient complianceautonomytype 2 diabetesDissertation