The Impact of Social Perceived Support from Social Networks on Diabetes Knowledge in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Mahbobeh Arefi 1
Hassan Behzadi 2
Mojtaba Kaffashan Kakhki 3
Ali Akbar Raof Saeb 4
1 MSc , Department of Knowledge and Information Science, Faculty of Education and Psychology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
2 Associate Professor , Department of Knowledge and Information Science, Faculty of Education and Psychology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
3 Assistance Professor , Department of Knowledge and Information Science, Faculty of Education and Psychology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
4 Medical University of Mashhad
10.48305/him.2025.45534.1330
Abstract
The Impact of Social Perceived Support from Social Networks on Diabetes Knowledge in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract

Introduction: The presence of diabetic patients in social networks allows them to perceive a form of social support, which plays a significant role in managing chronic diseases, including diabetes. Therefore, this study aims to examine the impact of perceived social support from social networks on the diabetes knowledge of diabetic patients.

Methods: This research is a survey-based and applied study. The statistical population consisted of type 2 diabetes patients visiting the Iran Diabetes Specialty Clinic in Mashhad, with a sample size of 170 participants. The data collection tool was a researcher-made questionnaire based on previous studies, the reliability of which was confirmed by Cronbach’s alpha, and its validity was established through convergent and discriminant validity. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics, inferential statistics, and structural equation modeling (SEM).

Results: The findings indicated that perceived social support from social networks has a significant positive effect on the diabetes knowledge of type 2 diabetic patients. As perceived social support increases, patients' diabetes knowledge also improves. Additionally, it was found that 25.9% of the variations in "diabetes knowledge" were explained by perceived social support from social networks, which is a considerable contribution.

Conclusion: Social networks provide a platform for delivering social support in two forms: informational support and emotional support. These two types of embedded support in social networks can assist patients in better disease management and enhancing their awareness and knowledge.

Keywords

Subjects

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Health Information Management
Volume 22, Issue 2
Summer 2025
Pages 83-89