Abstract
The attitudes of young adults towards their diabetes were investigated. Access was via paediatric clinics in Plymouth and the study explored the adolescents' own views, using a questionnaire. Quantitative data was analysed by computer using a software package for scientific statistics (SPSS).
Unlike previous studies, attitudes proved generally positive: 97.5% felt normal or only slightly different from nonβdiabetics. This correlated with how long they had had diabetes and their view of their diabetes control; 55% perceived control as excellent or good, and this related to frequency of bloodβmonitoring. Only seven individuals thought their families were overβprotective.
The data suggested a series of stages of acceptance, with a period of rejection sometimes occurring one to five years after diagnosis. Ten individuals (25%) found injections trying and claimed monitoring limited spontaneity. Twelve adolescents described weight problems; these were related to gender. Twelve monitored less than once daily and 11 frequently consumed unsuitable foods. Only 14 had considered future health prospects. Thirty two would prefer to attend specialist adolescent clinics.