Initial adaptation in children with newly diagnosed diabetes and healthy children.

A cohort of children with newly diagnosed diabetes (n = 68) from four diabetes treatment centers in northeastern states were compared with a cohort of healthy peers (n = 40) 6 weeks following the diagnosis of diabetes in the ill children. Instruments used included the Children's Depression Inventory (CDI), State-Trait Anxiety Inventory for Children (STAIC), Coping Inventory (COPE), Child & Adolescent Adjustment Profile (CAAP), and Self Perception Profile for Children (SPPC). Results indicated no demographic differences between the two groups and no differences in scores on CDI, STAIC-state anxiety, and all subscales of the CAAP and SPPC. However, the children with diabetes were reported to demonstrate less withdrawal (11.6 +/- 3.0 versus 12.4 +/- 2.3) than their healthy peers and were more likely to cope by ventilating feelings (19.7 +/- 2.0 versus 18.7 +/- 2.2). Parents reported that children with IDDM were less healthy (p < .001). These data suggest a less severe initial psychologic response to diabetes than might be expected and that there are differences in coping patterns among children with IDDM and children without chronic illness.