Family influences

Abstract

In this chapter, we will review the empirical research on the family processes and parent behaviors that influence children and adolescents with diabetes, including youth with type 1 diabetes (T1D) and youth with type 2 diabetes (T2D). First, we review research which documents a relationship between sociodemographic characteristics of the family and health and behavior outcomes in the child and adolescent with diabetes. Secondly, we review research on how the type or quality of general family interactions, as well as maternal and paternal symptoms of depression and anxiety, influence youth with diabetes. Finally, we review research on how different types of diabetes-specific family behaviors, such as diabetes-specific family conflict and parental-perceived burden of diabetes management, relate to behavior and health outcomes in children and adolescents with T1D. We conclude with next steps in research on family influences in pediatric diabetes as well as clinical implications of the research reviewed in this chapter.