Use of the Self- and Family Management Framework in Quantitative Research Studies

BACKGROUND:The Self- and Family Management Framework (SFMF) identifies factors and outcomes of patient and family management of chronic illness. In a previous citation analysis, we reported the frequency and nature of use of the SFMF.PURPOSE:We conducted a sub-analysis of quantitative articles in the citation analysis to examine testing of relationships depicted in the SFMF.METHODS:We analyzed study purposes, independent and dependent variables, study implications, and text that referred to the SFMF in 40 articles.FINDINGS:The SFMF has been used largely to explore factors affecting SFM behaviors, focusing on patient versus family self-management. Independent variables included all categories of facilitators/barriers specified in the SFMF. Dependent variables included all SFMF components (Facilitators/Barriers, Processes, Proximal and Distal Outcomes). Racial/ethnic diversity was limited among study participants. Study implications pertained mostly to psychosocial outcomes. Most studies referred to the SFMF generally.DISCUSSION:Findings will contribute to revision of the SFMF.