AbstractsPsychology

Inadequate adherence to type 1 diabetes treatment regimens has been associated with poor glycemic control and may result in serious short- and long-term health complications. As a group, adolescents have inferior adherence to both children and adults. Diabetes-specific family conflict has been identified as a barrier to adolescent treatment adherence. This study presents the results from a randomized, controlled trial of a multi-family group intervention targeting diabetes-specific family conflict and treatment adherence for adolescents with diabetes and their families. Nineteen adolescents (11 female) with type 1 diabetes and existing psychological distress (aged 13-17) and at least one caregiver participated. Group sessions were conducted weekly for ten, 60-90 minute treatment sessions. The feasibility, acceptability, and effects of the intervention were evaluated. Results indicate that youths in the intervention condition experienced significant reduction in diabetes-specific family conflict as compared to wait-list controls. Youths across the entire sample experienced significant improvements in treatment adherence from pre- to post- intervention as evidence by caregiver and adolescent ratings of treatment adherence. Moderate to large treatment effects were reported. Difficulties with recruitment were encountered, affecting feasibility; potential solutions are discussed.