Table 4.

Generational differences in perceived medicalization of the self that influence asthma self‐management

Generation	Levels of medicalization
Older first generations	Strict medication adherence, on time Followed advice from HCPs Medication believed to be a solution for all illnesses Prefer to be alone during worsening of asthma, e.g., rest/sleep; reluctance to speak about asthma and seek familial/medical aid Adherence to CAM alongside inhalers
Other first generations	Adherent to medication Sought medical aid
UK‐born generations	Adherent to medication but cautious about medication decisions Sought medical aid Discussed asthma when it was necessary
Across generations	De‐medicalization: Medical instructions and treatment were questioned Active seeking of other sources of information Preference for HCPs to provide individualized supported self‐management Some distrust for following all HCP opinion/advice Belief that self‐management should be holistic based on other preventative factors rather than solely based on medicine