Social support and diabetes management in childhood and adolescence: influence of parents and friends

Curr Diab Rep. 2006 Apr;6(2):117-22. doi: 10.1007/s11892-006-0022-y.

Abstract

This paper reviews the empirical research literature on the role of social support in children and adolescents with diabetes. Studies on the role of parental involvement in diabetes management suggest that premature withdrawal of parental involvement is associated with poor diabetes outcomes, whereas continued parental support and monitoring is associated with better outcomes among adolescents. Research on social support from friends suggests that friends can be a unique source of support that complements parents' involvement and improves adolescents' diabetes management.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Caregivers
  • Child
  • Diabetes Mellitus / psychology*
  • Friends*
  • Humans
  • Parents*
  • Social Support*