Development of a positive psychology intervention to improve adherence in adolescents with type 1 diabetes.
BACKGROUND
Novel interventions are needed to improve adherence to treatment in adolescents with type 1 diabetes. In this article, we describe the development, feasibility, and acceptability of a positive psychology intervention for this population.


METHODS
Adolescents and their parents (n = 39) were randomly assigned to either a positive psychology intervention or an attention control group. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected on feasibility and acceptability. Descriptive and content analysis methods were used.


RESULTS
Recruitment was successful, participation and satisfaction were high in both groups, and retention was excellent over 6 months. In the positive psychology group, adolescents and their parents noted benefits related to increased positive communication and thinking more about diabetes care. We also identified challenges to implementation.


CONCLUSIONS
Although more research is indicated, a positive psychology framework emphasizing positive emotions and strengths, rather than problems, may be beneficial to adolescents living with a complex chronic illness.
Sarah S
SS
Jaser
Niral
N
Patel
Rebecca
R
Linsky
Robin
R
Whittemore
D000293:Adolescent; D015190:Blood Glucose Self-Monitoring / Q000523:psychology*; D003922:Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1 / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000523:psychology*; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007004:Hypoglycemic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008297:Male; D055118:Medication Adherence / Q000523:psychology*; D009042:Motivation; D010290:Parents; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D017060:Patient Satisfaction / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D010865:Pilot Projects; D016730:Program Development; D011613:Psychotherapy / Q000379:methods; D012648:Self Care / Q000523:psychology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D007004:Hypoglycemic Agents
Type 1 diabetes; adolescent; intervention development; medical treatment adherence