Vol. 8, Issue 1, Part A (2025)

Background: Type 1 diabetes (T1D) imposes unique demands on adolescents. The consequences of living with T1D are far-reaching, affecting their glycemic control, psychological well-being, and ultimately their quality of life. At present, family support is recognized as one of the most important factors in enhancing treatment adherence and overall outcomes in T1D adolescents. However, how the nature of family dynamics influences diabetes management is not that well understood. The aim of this review is to discuss the impact of family support on adherence and diabetes management in adolescents with T1D.

Methods: A review of literature published between 1995 and 2023 was conducted, those studies assessing the impact of family support on adherence and diabetes management in adolescents with T1D. The main themes explored will be parental involvement, family conflict, and interventions promoting family support.

Results: Predictably, structured family engagement, embodied in both authoritative parenting and collaborative management, is associated with better glycemic outcomes and psychological adjustment, whereas extreme levels of conflict or over involvement are associated with poor adherence and poor outcomes. Evidence-based interventions, including both family-focused behavioral therapies and communication training, provide some cause for optimism based on their promise for enhancing supportive family interactions and health outcomes.

Conclusions: Family support is of utmost importance for T1D management in adolescents. Health professionals should establish appropriate interventions to enhance active family involvement in diabetes care that will lead to a healthy family relationship and mutual responsibilities. Further research into this area is called for to establish how cultural and socioeconomic factors influence family dynamics and, subsequently, diabetes management.