Predictors of diabetes knowledge in newly diagnosed children and parents.
Utilizing standardized instruments, family and demographic predictors of general and problem-solving knowledge pertaining to diabetes were identified in 53 newly diagnosed children. Mothers, fathers, and children scored significantly higher on the general information component than on the problem-solving knowledge test. Parents of youth ages 15-18 scored significantly lower on both components of the knowledge test than parents of younger youth. Multivariate analyses identified 5 predictors of general information and problem-solving knowledge: child's age, family socioeconomic levels, family stress, family communication abilities, and financial resources. Results suggest that education programs should emphasize problem-solving ability as well as general knowledge, and target parents of older teenagers. Moreover, assessment of family stressors and resources should be routinely performed in families of newly diagnosed children.
Auslander
W F
WF
George Warren Brown School of Social Work, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri 63130.
Haire-Joshu
D
D
Rogge
M
M
Santiago
J V
JV
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003922:Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1 / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010290:Parents / Q000193:education* / Q000523:psychology; D010349:Patient Compliance / Q000523:psychology*; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000379:methods*; D011340:Problem Solving