title: Children's views of their adaptation to type 1 diabetes mellitus.
abstract: 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.
authors.affiliation: Department of Nursing, DePaul University, Chicago, IL, USA.
authors.forename: Kim Siarkowski
authors.initials: KS
authors.lastname: Amer
mesh_terms: 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