Empirical selection of psychosocial treatment targets for children and adolescents with diabetes.

Used an empirical approach to determine psychosocial variables related to optimal metabolic control of diabetes in two samples (total n = 56) of children and their families. Children and adolescents classified as either in optimal or nonoptimal control of diabetes (based on glycosylated hemoglobin results) completed self-report measures on variables of anxiety, coping, family environment and health locus of control, and a structured interview. Parents completed parallel self-report measures and a child behavior checklist. Children in optimal control of diabetes had more structured and controlling family environments, and more frequently believed that "powerful others" were responsible for their health. There was a marginally significant difference in knowledge, with children in poorer metabolic control showing better knowledge about diabetes and its management than children in optimal control. The study illustrates an empirical approach to the selection of psychosocial treatment targets for children with diabetes, and underscores the importance of parental involvement with the diabetes regimen to ensure optimal control of diabetes in both children and adolescents.