A peer group intervention for adolescents with type 1 diabetes and their best friends

Objective: To devise and implement a structured intervention for integratin g peers into diabetes care in a healthy and adaptive manner. Methods: Adolescents with diabetes (n = 21) and their best friends (n = 21) participated in a group intervention aimed at increasing diabetes knowledg e and social support of diabetes care. Measures of social support, knowledg e about diabetes and support, diabetes functioning, and social functioning were obtained prior to and following intervention. Results: Following the intervention, adolescents and their friends demonstr ated higher levels of knowledge about diabetes and support, as well as a hi gher ratio of peer to family support, and friends demonstrated improved sel f-perception. Parents reported decreased diabetes-related conflict. Conclusions: Peer group intervention approaches may result in increased pos itive peer involvement in adolescents' diabetes care.