Family resilience in childhood diabetes

Families living with a child diagnosed with type 1 diabetes are being asked to share their experiences as part of a Massey University study.

Led by Fathimath Rifshana as part of her doctorate in clinical psychology, the new study focuses on family resilience in childhood diabetes and explores how families adapt, cope and come to terms with the chronic disease.

Fifteen families are needed to take part in the project. The families must have a child aged 4-12 years who has been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes for a minimum of six months.

“For kids with diabetes it’s a daily challenge to keep their blood glucose at the acceptable level,” Ms Rifshana says. “My focus is on families, and their experience of having a child with type 1 diabetes.”

Ms Rifshana will spend up to two hours interviewing the caregivers in their home, with questions centred on their experiences having a child with type 1 diabetes, and what has helped them cope.

“The experiences they share will contribute to a better understanding of how families cope when facing difficult life challenges, such as having a child diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, and provide other families with strategies to try.”

Ms Rifshana is seeking volunteers for the study from Manawatu, Wanganui, Horowhenua and Southern Hawke’s Bay. Families will receive a $30 petrol/grocery voucher. All interview data will be kept confidential.

If you are interested in participating or finding more information on the project please contact Fathimath Rifshana on rifshana@gmail.com or on 06 356 9099 ext 2516.