Parental Management of Young Children's Diabetes

The intervention utilizes cognitive behavioral strategies. Session 1 uses relaxation and cognitive reframing and explores parents' responses to the challenges of parenting a child with diabetes. Session 2 focuses on the emotional impact of having a child with diabetes and utilizes problem solving techniques. Session 3 focuses on child behavior and strategies for effective parenting. To facilitate support and community, Session 4 is a group session via conference call to discuss issues related to social support. Session 5 focuses on the impact diabetes has on the family and parents are taught cognitive reframing to help with managing diabetes. Parents are invited to participate in an Internet bulletin board moderated by trial personnel.

The education comparison group also participates in 5 sessions across 9 weeks. This group provides educational and resource support that is specific to managing diabetes in young children. Education topics include blood glucose monitoring, nutrition, and physical activity. Print materials are provided to participants and intervention sessions focus on talking points raised in these reading materials.