Evaluation of peer-group support and problem-solving training in the treatment of adolescents with type 1 diabetes

Authors

  • RN Løding
  • JE Wold
  • Å Skavhaug
  • M Graue

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1002/edn.73

Keywords:

Adolescents, parents, diabetes, group intervention

Abstract

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study was to describe the elements and results of peer-group support and problem-solving training in the treatment of adolescents with type 1 diabetes and their parents. The hypothesis was that the intervention would improve HbA1c and enable the adolescents to take responsibility in managing their diabetes.

Method: A total of 60 adolescents with type 1 diabetes, aged 13–18 years, and their parents, were invited to participate in this study. They were recruited from outpatient clinics in two centres in Norway, and 19 adolescents agreed to participate. Both adolescents and parents completed self-report questionnaires pre-treatment, during treatment, post-treatment and at one year follow up. In addition HbA1c values were obtained five times from the adolescents’ medical records over the same time period.

Results: The results indicated that peer-group support and problem-solving training is a suitable intervention in the treatment of adolescents with type 1 diabetes. In terms of metabolic control there was a significant decrease in HbA1c in girls (p=0.039).

Conclusion: The intervention was peer-oriented and psycho-educative, and encouraged collaboration between the paediatric diabetes clinic and the psychiatric department in the treatment for adolescents with diabetes and their parents. This collaboration was of great importance for the quality of the study and added valuable knowledge and experience to the diabetes multidisciplinary team.

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Published

2007-03-01

How to Cite

Løding, R., Wold, J., Skavhaug, Å, & Graue, M. (2007). Evaluation of peer-group support and problem-solving training in the treatment of adolescents with type 1 diabetes. International Diabetes Nursing, 4(1), 28–33. https://doi.org/10.1002/edn.73

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Section

Research Article