Adolescents’ experiences of self-management and decision-making in type 1 diabetes mellitus

Alias, Kamila and Lee, Siew Pien and Muhd Helmi, Muhd Alwi and Wan Mohd Annuar, W Solihatul Hafidzah and Atan, Ashikin and Leong, Steven Fook Seong and Solikhah, Umi (2026) Adolescents’ experiences of self-management and decision-making in type 1 diabetes mellitus. International Journal of Care Scholars, 9 (3). pp. 86-96. ISSN 2600-898X

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Abstract

Background: Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) encounter challenges in managing their condition, which may reduce their confidence and engagement in self-management. This study explored adolescents’ experiences of T1DM self-management, focusing on factors influencing their engagement in self-management practices and healthcare decision-making. Methods: A qualitative study using purposive sampling was conducted via clinical consultations and semi-structured interview. Thirty participants were recruited, comprising 12 adolescents with T1DM, 14 parents, and four healthcare professionals. Data were analysed using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase thematic analysis. Results: Three themes emerged: (a) Knowledge Deficits and Dependence, where limited understanding of diabetes management resulted in reliance on parents and healthcare professionals; (b) Complex Burden of Self-Management, highlighting difficulties in glycaemic control, dietary adherence, and the psychosocial impact of living with T1DM, including social stigma; and (c) Emerging yet Constrained Autonomy, where adolescents demonstrated varying levels of involvement in self-management and decision-making, ranging from passive dependence to increasing independence. These findings suggest that adolescents’ self-management experiences are shaped by the interaction of diabetes-related knowledge, psychosocial challenges, and evolving autonomy. Conclusion: Adolescents’ engagement in T1DM self-management is influenced by their knowledge, psychosocial experiences, and developing autonomy. Developmentally appropriate diabetes education and supportive, adolescent-centred care are essential to strengthen confidence, encourage meaningful participation in decision-making, and promote effective long-term self-management

Item Type:	Article (Journal)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Adolescents, Self-management, Type 1 diabetes mellitus, Qualitative research, Shared decision-making
Subjects:	R Medicine > RJ Pediatrics > RJ101 Child Heatlh. Child health services. Preventive health services for children R Medicine > RJ Pediatrics > RJ245 Nursing of children. Pediatric Nursing
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	Kulliyyah of Nursing > Department of Special Care Nursing
Depositing User:	Dr Siew Pien Lee
Date Deposited:	04 Sep 2026 10:35
Last Update:	04 Sep 2026 10:35
Queue Number:	2026-09-Q4994
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/131118
Indexed In:	MyCite

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