Background
Family support is important in diabetes self-management. However, children as providers
of support have received little attention. This study examines the role of children
in their parents' diabetes self-management, diet, and exercise.
Methods
This research used community-based participatory research principles. Researchers
conducted semi-structured parallel interviews of 24 Latino and African-American adults
with diabetes and with a child (aged 10–17 years) in their home (2004–2006). Interviews
were transcribed, coded, and analyzed for themes (2004–2007).
Results
Adults and children perceived that children play many roles related to adults' diabetes
self-management. Parents described children as monitoring parents' dietary intake
and reminding them what they should not be eating. Some children helped with shopping
and meal preparation. Families described children reminding parents to exercise and
exercising with their parents. Children reminded parents about medications and assisted
with tasks such as checking blood sugar. Parents and children perceived that children
played a role in tempting parents to stray from their diabetes diet, because children's
diets included food that parents desired but tried to avoid.
Conclusions
Children and parents perceived that children have many roles in both supporting and
undermining adults' diabetes self-management. There is more to learn about the bi-directional
relationships between adults and children in this setting, and the most beneficial
roles children can play. Healthcare providers should encourage family lifestyle changes,
strengthen social support for families, and direct children toward roles that are
beneficial for both parent and child without placing an unreasonable level of responsibility
on the child.
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© 2009 American Journal of Preventive Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
