Objective To explore the influence of delay discounting on self-management behaviors in diabetic patients, so as to provide a reference for medical professionals conducting related research and nursing interventions.Methods Using the JBI Scope Review Guidelines as the methodological framework, we searched relevant studies across several databases, including Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Data Knowledge Service Platform, and the Chinese Biomedical Literature Database.The search period was from database inception to July 1, 2024.Results A total of 14 articles were included, the findings of which indicated that patients exhibiting high delay discounting were more likely to have poor medication compliance, experience eating disorder, monitor blood glucose with a lower frequency, maintain reduced physical activity, and possess inadequate awareness of foot care, contributing to elevated glycosylated hemoglobin.Conclusion In patients with diabetes, greater delay discounting is associated with poorer self-management behaviors and blood glucose management outcomes.It is necessary to implement tailored strategies according to varying health behaviors and delay discount rates among diabetic patients, in order to improve their self-management ability and prevent complications.