The interaction of adolescents with type 1 diabetes with others: A Qualitative study

Adolescent's mutually good relationship with others enhances their empowerment. The aim of this study was to analyze the interaction between adolescents with type 1diabetes and others.
In this study, the interaction of adolescents with type 1 diabetes was investigated through content analysis. Sixteen adolescents aged 13-18 with type 1 diabetes, and at least a year past their diagnosis participated in the present study. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews. After each interview, data were transcribed and analyzed with the help of members of the research team. Each interview guided the next interview, that is, the interview questions were altered based on the previous interview data. Field note was another instrument for data collection.
Demographic findings of this study indicated that the adolescent's mean age was 16 years, 37.5% were female and 62.5% were male; 37.5% of adolescents resided in Tehran and the rest in other provinces. Six themes emerged from this study: relationship with family, relationship with others, lack of dependence on others, normal behavior with others, sense of power when compared with others and keeping up appearances and 20 subthemes.
The present study showed that Iranian adolescents extremely tend to participate in self-care and treatment. People's reactions and rational behaviors as well as their support along with preserving independence lead to adolescent's effective communication.