RESEARCH ON SOCIAL SUPPORT IN ADOLESCENTS WITH IDDM - A CRITICAL-REVIEW

This article provides a review of the findings of 32 scientific studie s that examined the relationship between social support and adherence/ metabolic control in adolescents with insulin-dependent diabetes melli tus. Social support included qualitative family support characteristic s, communication patterns, sibling and peer relationships, and regimen -specific support behaviors. The literature was examined in the contex t of adolescent development. Although the results of these studies wer e somewhat inconsistent, some general patterns emerged that are descri bed and discussed in detail. Methodological limitations and suggestion s for future research are provided.