Children's views of their adaptation to type 1 diabetes mellitus.
When a family learns their child has insulin-dependent type 1 diabetes mellitus, or type 1 diabetes, shock and anxiety are quickly followed by the reality of the demands of managing the condition. Demands include injections or continuous insulin infusion, blood glucose monitoring 2 to 4 times a day, regimented meal planning, and intensive planning of daily activities. Like many chronic illnesses, type 1 diabetes can have long-term effects on the child and family. Health providers must offer support in a number of ways. To determine the best way to approach children with diabetes mellitus, this study examined children's perceptions of their adaptation to type 1 diabetes. Recognizing children's own perceptions is critical for long-term understanding and management. The children in this study had overall positive self-perceptions and good attitudes toward illness. Even though many adults perceive diabetes mellitus in children as an overwhelming experience, the children's attitudes in this study were very positive.
Amer
Kim Siarkowski
KS
Department of Nursing, DePaul University, Chicago, IL, USA.
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000293:Adolescent; D001294:Attitude to Health; D002641:Chicago; D002648:Child; D003922:Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1 / Q000451:nursing / Q000523:psychology*; D005192:Family Health; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007087:Illinois; D008297:Male; D012649:Self Concept