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Check it! A randomized pilot of a positive psychology intervention to improve adherence in adolescents with type 1
Sarah S Jaser1, Niral Patel1, Russell L Rothman2
1Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee, USA (Prof Jaser, Ms Patel)
Purpose:
The purpose of the current study was to pilot-test a positive psychology intervention to improve adherence to diabetes management in adolescents with type 1 diabetes.
Methods:
A total of 39 adolescents (ages, 13-17 years) with type 1 diabetes and their caregivers were randomized to a positive psychology intervention (n = 20) or an attention control (education) intervention (n = 19). The intervention condition used positive psychology exercises (eg, gratitude, self-affirmation), small gifts, and parent affirmations to boost positive affect. Outcomes included frequency of blood glucose monitoring, quality of life, and glycemic control.
Results:
No main effects for treatment were observed at the 6-month follow-up. However, there was a significant association between adolescents' levels of positive affect and measures of adherence, including self-report and meter downloads of glucose monitoring.
Conclusions:
The results from the current study support the assertion that positive affect in the context of diabetes education is an important factor to consider in adolescents with type 1 diabetes.
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