Protective factors in resilient South African youth with type 1 diabetes: A qualitative study

Abstract

Background: Self-managing type 1 diabetes (T1D) can be challenging, especially for adolescents in a critical developmental stage. Some adolescents struggle to successfully self-manage T1D and struggle to keep it well-controlled into adulthood. Despite this concern, there is a notable lack of evidence-based research on protective factors and/or resources to support adolescents living with T1D in South Africa.
Aim: This study aimed to explore and describe the protective factors of resilience among South African adolescents living with well-controlled T1D.
Setting: The study was conducted at the Centre for Diabetes and Endocrinology (CDE) in Parktown, Gauteng, South Africa, a specialised facility offering comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for adolescents with T1D.
Methods: A qualitative descriptive research design was used, and seven semi-structured interviews were conducted, transcribed and thematically analysed.
Results: Four themes emerged from the data: Just do it: Commit to the diabetes care plan; It takes a village to raise a child living with diabetes; The silver lining of developing positive characteristics and It’s a process of continuously learning about T1D.
Conclusion: Internal abilities (planning, taking responsibility, perseverance and determinism) and external resources (parents, family members, school, mentors) foster positive outcomes and adjustment for adolescents with well-controlled T1D. The potential for adolescents with T1D to use available internal abilities and external resources in managing their diabetes could be beneficial to the successful management of T1D.
Contribution: The study addressed a gap in understanding protective factors involved in the successful self-management of adolescents living with well-controlled T1D in South Africa.