Problem Solving and Diabetes Regiman Adherence by Children and Adolescents with IDDM in Social Pressure Situations: A Reflection of Normal Development

Investigated problem-solving ability and reported regimen adherence among children, early adolescents, and middle adolescents with IDDM in response to hypothetical social situations where a choice between diabetes regimen adherence and peer desires must be made. Sixty-seven 8- to 17-year-olds with IDDM from two distinct U.S. geographical areas participated. Results indicated that compared to children with IDDM, adolescents with IDDM had better problem-solving abilities in response to social pressure situations, possibly reflecting their greater cognitive maturity. However, adolescents were also more likely to choose behaviors that are less regimen adherent. Differences in levels of problem-solving ability and adherence between the two regional subsamples were also found. Similar developmental patterns were found in both groups, showing the robust nature of the observed age-related trend of decreasing adherence in social situations despite increasing problem-solving abilities. Findings were interpreted in the context of normal adolescent development. Results are conceptually important for those interested in the transaction between peer and social influences and adherence for children and adolescents with IDDM, as well as other health behaviors.