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Coping and adaptation in children with diabetes.
M Grey1, M E Cameron, F W Thurber
1University of Pennsylvania, School of Nursing, Philadelphia.
Nursing Research
|May 1, 1991
Summary
Preadolescents with diabetes manage their condition better than adolescents, showing fewer emotional and adjustment issues. Interventions should target ineffective coping styles in adolescents with diabetes.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Pediatrics
- Psychology
Background:
- Diabetes management in youth presents unique challenges.
- Psychosocial adaptation and metabolic control are key concerns for children and adolescents with diabetes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine how age, coping strategies, and self-care impact psychological, social, and physiological adaptation in preadolescents and adolescents with diabetes.
- To understand the relationship between developmental stage and diabetes management outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 103 children aged 8-18 with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) and their parents.
- Assessment of psychological, social, and physiological adaptation, coping behaviors, and self-care.
Main Results:
- Preadolescents demonstrated significantly lower depression and anxiety, more positive coping, fewer adjustment problems, and better metabolic control compared to adolescents.
- Age and secondary sexual development correlated with psychosocial adaptation and metabolic control.
- Avoidant coping and higher depression levels were linked to adjustment and metabolic control issues, explaining 56% of the variance in metabolic control.
Conclusions:
- Preadolescents and adolescents exhibit distinct coping mechanisms when managing chronic illness like diabetes.
- Interventions should focus on identifying and supporting individuals with maladaptive coping styles to improve diabetes management and overall well-being.
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