Management of Type 1 Diabetes Among Adolescents

Management of diabetes is a complex process involving the conduct of daily self-care activities, problem-solving, and decision-making. It is particularly challenging during adolescence when youth are experiencing a variety of physiological, social, and psychological changes at the same time that they are taking increased responsibility for their own diabetes care. This study examines the influence of family, social, and adolescent developmental transitions. Over the course of 12 months, a sample of 135 parent-child dyads will provide information on individual efficacy, maturity, family and social support, attitudes toward diabetes management, and diabetes management behaviors. One goal of this pilot study is to identify factors that predict the adherence of individual youth and parents during this transition period.