Exploring Perceptions about Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus in Adolescent Patients and Peers

Friends can provide encouragement and support during stressful times. Friends are even more important for children coping with chronic illness such as adolescents managing insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM). Nurses need to recognize that the knowledge and care of both the children coping with diabetes and friends can be critical. This study explored perceptions of adolescents managing diabetes and their peers. The non-affected peers and adolescents with IDDM ranged in age between 15-18 were studied using an exploratory qualitative method. A sample of 6 subjects, 2 with diabetes and 4 peers, were interviewed. Subjects with IDDM reported manageable stress but frustration with friends' lack of knowledge. The peers reported different views of managing diabetes than those with IDDM. Adolescents with IDDM also reported positive family support. The study revealed that peers need additional education on the illness. In summary, adolescents coping with diabetes had overall positive perceptions and accurate knowledge, but limited support from peers.