Relationships and the development of transition readiness skills into early emerging adulthood for individuals with type 1 diabetes

The study examined how 'transition readiness' skills develop from relationship processes with parents, friends, and healthcare providers. During their senior year of high school and one year later, participants (N = 217) with type 1 diabetes completed measures of transition readiness skills (Self-Management; Self-Advocacy), adherence, HbA1c, and relationships with providers (patient-centered communication), parents (monitoring/knowledge), and friends (knowledge/helpfulness) surrounding diabetes. Self-Management skills increased across time. Higher friend knowledge/helpfulness during emerging adulthood was associated with increased Self-Management skills. Adherence improved when relationships with providers and friends matched transition readiness skills, indicating that these relationships may facilitate transition skills in early emerging adulthood.