Search

The purpose of this study is to explore the coping with disease in adolescents with type 1 diabetes in its complexity - from the viewpoint of emotional distress, perception of the disease, and equally that of preferred coping strategies in the context of differing levels of metabolic compensation. Set of questionnaires consisting of Big Five Inventory (BFI), Brief-Cope, Problem Areas in Diabetes Questionnaire (PAID), Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire (BIPQ) and Diabetes Adolescent Problem Solving Questionnaire (DAPSQ) was used. Differences between different groups of adolescents with type 1 diabetes were detected in the usage of coping strategies in utilizing the strategy of giving up. Difference in usage of problem solving was confirmed in "awareness" and "revision". Significant correlation between perception of the disease and utilization of the strategy focused on problem solving was found as well as correlation between emotional distress and problem-solving. Different aspects of coping with the disease in patients with type 1 diabetes significantly influence each other; patients with insufficient compensation are at risk of serious complications, those with excellent compensation, are exposed to high levels of emotional distress and the risk of burnout. Reinforcement of competences through education contributes to an increase in awareness of treatment, realization and saturation of psycho-social and cultural needs, as well as to a greater extent of taking over the responsibility of treatment and self-care that has a positive impact on shortterm and long-term results alike. Therefore, it is very important that specialists from different fields cooperate with individuals with diabetes and their parents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]