Graduation Year

2026

Document Type

Ed. Specalist

Degree

*Ed.S.

Degree Name

Education Specialist (Ed.S.)

Degree Granting Department

Educational and Psychological Studies

Major Professor

Kathy L. Bradley-Klug, Ph.D.

Committee Member

Lorien S. Jordan, Ph.D.

Committee Member

Emily J. Shaffer-Hudkins, Ph.D.

Keywords

Chronic Health Conditions, Female, Menstruation, Photovoice

Abstract

Young women with type 1 diabetes (T1D) navigate complex physical, emotional, and social challenges, being at a higher risk for mental health concerns (e.g., depression), as well as physical (e.g., fatigue) and cognitive (e.g., focus) symptoms related to the management of their chronic health condition (Dantzer et al., 2003; Northam et al., 2005). About one-third of young women with T1D experience some form of menstrual dysfunction (Griffin et al., 1994; Schweiger et al., 2011), which is associated with lower quality of life across several domains, including the educational setting (Knox et al., 2015). Nevertheless, there is a gap in the understanding of how these intersecting experiences may shape their well-being and the unique challenges, strengths, and areas of support needed. This study utilized photovoice, a qualitative arts-based methodology, to explore the lived experiences of young women aged 18 years and older as it relates to T1D and the menstrual cycle. The study was guided by Bronfenbrenner’s (1979) Ecological Systems Theory and Crenshaw’s (1989) Intersectionality Theory to consider both individual and contextual factors that played a role in the participants’ experiences. Participants were recruited through university-based outreach efforts, including emails to student organizations and flyers distributed across campus. A total of two students who served as co-researchers participated in four group sessions. During the three first sessions, the co-researchers engaged in the SHOWeD method (Wang & Burris, 1997) to collectively reflect and discuss their experiences. During the fourth session, they engaged in participatory analysis to answer the research question regarding their experiences with the menstrual cycle, T1D and well-being, and identified three main themes: (1) burden, (2) perseverance, and (3) support. The study aimed to center participant voices and amplify their perspectives, shedding light on the unique challenges, strengths, and supports needed for young women with T1D as they navigate the intersection of chronic health conditions and the menstrual cycle. Findings have the potential to deepen our understanding of these experiences and enhance the support provided by healthcare providers, caregivers, educational, and community practitioners, further promoting the well-being of young women with T1D.

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