Understanding Resilience in Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes
Resilience in adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D) means achieving target glycemic outcomes despite the challenges they encounter. However, the concept of resilience in this population has not yet been standardized.
Defining Resilience in Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes / rkris – stock.adobe.com
Despite significant advancements in diabetes technology, many adolescents with T1D struggle to meet metabolic control targets. To address this, researchers analyzed existing data on resilience in this group to develop a clearer definition.
The Definition of Diabetes Resilience
The researchers defined diabetes resilience as achieving positive outcomes despite exposure to significant risks or adversities. This concept has been studied since 2000 but remains largely undefined in the context of adolescents with T1D.
Methodology of the Study
For their systematic review, the researchers conducted a search in CINAHL, PubMed/Medline, and PsycInfo databases. They included studies on resilience in adolescents with T1D aged 13 to 18 years that appeared in peer-reviewed scientific journals. Out of the 24 studies analyzed, 21 were quantitative, 1 was qualitative, and 2 used mixed methods.
Variations in How Resilience is Defined
The researchers found that 14 studies provided a definition of resilience, with 4 focusing specifically on diabetes resilience. Two studies defined resilience as encompassing four qualities: hopefulness, an optimistic explanatory style, effective coping strategies, and problem-solving skills. Another nine studies viewed resilience as an ability or capacity, such as maintaining positive physical and mental health outcomes despite stressors. Four studies saw resilience as a process of adapting to significant stressors or events, emphasizing its context-specific and dynamic nature. One study considered resilience a protective resource, allowing individuals to utilize resources for their health.
Definitions of Diabetes Resilience
The four studies that defined diabetes resilience highlighted the achievement of positive psychosocial and health outcomes, engagement in diabetes self-management, and the attainment of glycemic targets despite challenges.
Resilience Instruments Used
Researchers utilized six different resilience instruments across the studies. The Diabetes Strengths and Resilience Measure for Adolescents (DSTAR-Teen) was used in eight studies, while other tools included the Resiliency Scales for Children.
The Importance of a Standardized Definition
The review emphasized the need for a clear definition of resilience because studies often used inconsistent definitions or omitted definitions altogether. Standardizing the definition will allow for more effective comparison of outcomes in future research.
Promising Tools for Measuring Resilience
Despite the lack of a standardized definition, the researchers noted that the DSTAR-Teen shows promise as a measure of resilience in adolescents with T1D and should be considered for future studies.
Conclusion
The quest to understand resilience in adolescents with T1D underscores the complexities of living with the condition. By developing a clearer definition and standardizing measurement tools, healthcare professionals can better support these young individuals in achieving better glycemic control and overall well-being.
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