Siblings of diabetes type 1 children: Impact of illness and treatment on psychological functionary of brothers and sisters. Implications for therapeutic patient education

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of this exploratory cross-sectional study is to assess the psychological impact of insulin-dependent type 1 diabetes (IDDM) on siblings of the ill child. Methods: The study population consisted of two groups of siblings, each including six children aged 12 to 15 years and 8 to 12 years respectively, under the responsibility of the Therapeutic Education Centre for Young Diabetic Children. G roup interviews and behavioural observations were conducted within the framework of structured group counselling sessions. Narratives were submitted to a content analysis. Results: showed that siblings of IDDM children have difficulties interacting with the ill child, and display negative emotions such as guilt, anxiety, anger and jealousy. Conclusion: brothers and sisters of diabetic children are disturbed by the occurrence of this chronic illness. Controlled prospective trials are required before these results can be confirmed and generalised.