Reviewing identity development in young people living with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
2025

Identity Development in Young People with Type 1 Diabetes

Sample size: 7 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Elinda de Klerk, Elmarí Deacon, Esmé van Rensburg

Primary Institution: North-West University, South Africa

Hypothesis

What does scientific literature state regarding identity development in young people living with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus?

Conclusion

Identity develops differently in young people living with T1DM than in those without chronic conditions, highlighting the need for more research directly involving these young individuals.

Supporting Evidence

  • Identity development in young people with T1DM is complex and differs from their peers without chronic conditions.
  • Young people can either incorporate or contain their diabetes in their identity development.
  • External factors like family dynamics and societal perceptions significantly influence how young people perceive their diabetes.

Takeaway

Young people with Type 1 Diabetes often have to figure out how to include their diabetes in who they are, which can be tough but important for feeling good about themselves.

Methodology

A critical review design was employed, analyzing seven articles thematically after an initial screening of 1319 scientific literature.

Potential Biases

The reliance on secondary sources from caregivers and health professionals may introduce bias in understanding young people's experiences.

Limitations

The review was limited to studies published from 2014 to 2024, and there is a lack of recent literature on identity development in young people with T1DM.

Participant Demographics

Young people aged 13-25 living with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1002/jad.12412

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