Family communication central to mothers' type 2 diabetes self-management.

Findings highlight the need for a family systems approach to DSME. Communication from multiple bonds (e.g., spouse, children) and past family-of-origin experiences impact self-care. Communal coping (appraising diabetes as "our" problem) was critical to self-management as mothers struggled to balance their needs with family members' preferences/attitudes. When not supported, mothers who took the lead communicatively could facilitate communal coping or prioritize self-care needs. Findings can inform a family-centered approach to DSME that highlights the importance of communal coping, provides all members communication skills training, and addresses the need for mothers to prioritize personal well-being. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).