Comparing social learning and family systems correlates of adaptation in youths with IDDM

Evaluated social learning and family systems theoretical models to determine (a) whether illness-specific family relations (based on social learning theory) and general family behaviors (based on family systems theory) relate uniquely to the youths' illness-specific and psychosocial adaptation, and (b) whether these types of family relations covary or whether they represent distinct aspects of family functioning. Participants included 95 youths with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) and their parents. Positive and supportive family relations (illness-specific family support, general family affection, general family adaptability) as well as conflictual and nonsupportive relations (i.e., illness-specific family nonsupport, general family conflict) were assessed. Results suggest that both illness-specific and general family relations uniquely predict the youths' dietary adherence and general psychosocial adaptation. Because illness-specific and general family relations also covary, broad-based models that include both types of family functioning seem warranted.