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Chronic disease and perceived developmental progression in adolescence
1University of Mainz, Germany. seiffge@mail.uni-mainz.de
Developmental Psychology
|October 21, 1998
Summary
Adolescents with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus experienced developmental delays, especially in physical maturity and independence. Despite challenges, their overall perceived development was significant, highlighting the balance between chronic illness and normative growth.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent Medicine
- Developmental Psychology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Chronic illnesses can impact adolescent development.
- Understanding developmental trajectories in adolescents with chronic conditions is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if chronic illness, specifically insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, delays adolescents' perceived developmental status.
- To compare developmental progression between chronically ill and healthy adolescents.
Main Methods:
- Longitudinal study design.
- Involved 86 adolescents with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus and 103 healthy adolescents.
- Annual questionnaires on perceived developmental status and physical maturity, alongside health status assessments.
Main Results:
- In the first year, diabetic adolescents reported delays in developmental tasks, particularly physical maturity and independent lifestyle.
- Despite initial delays, chronically ill adolescents demonstrated impressive overall perceived developmental progression.
- Significant challenges exist in balancing normative development with chronic illness demands.
Conclusions:
- Chronic illness presents unique developmental challenges for adolescents.
- Adolescents with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus can achieve substantial developmental progress.
- Further research is needed to support adolescents in navigating chronic illness and development.