The Barriers to Shared Decision-making in Exercise Prescription for Children With Asthma: A Qualitative Study From Parents' Perspective

Abstract

Introduction: The knowledge of barriers from the parental perspective is essential for facilitating shared decision-making in the field of pediatric asthma.

Method: Participants who were parents of children with a diagnosis of asthma were recruited, and in-depth, semistructured interviews were conducted. The interview transcripts were analyzed thematically using framework methods.

Results: Seventeen participants undertook interviews. Three themes and nine subthemes emerged: (1) decision-making need level-limited understanding of decision-making knowledge, ambiguity regarding self-empowerment roles, and lack of family member support; (2) decision-making support level-insufficient ability to evaluate information, inefficient communication with health care professionals, and excessive use of professional terminology; and (3) decision-making outcome level-doubts about the final decision-making choices, time constraints on decision-making, and absence of mechanisms to track decisions made.

Discussion: The findings would serve as crucial foundations for the development of decision-aid programs within the context of pediatric asthma.

Keywords: Children with a diagnosis of asthma; exercise prescription; parents; qualitative research; shared decision-making.