Abstract
Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) is a chronic condition with increasing incidence in paediatric populations. Notably, the condition-related tasks required to manage paediatric T1D are too complex for some children and adolescents to undertake independently. Thus, parents and guardians are often tasked with managing T1D on behalf of their child. This newfound responsibility can have a significant impact on caregivers' daily lives, causing social isolation, financial burdens, and changes in family function. As a result, caregivers often experience a substantial emotional burden related to their child's T1D. However, despite the prevalence of this issue, there is a notable lack of research investigating psychological interventions to support emotional wellbeing in this population. This PhD thesis describes the development of an evidence-based and person-centred psychological intervention addressing emotional wellbeing in caregivers of children with T1D. This involves a systematic process of collating the existing evidence, collaborating with key stakeholders, and testing the feasibility of the intervention to establish if it is viable to proceed with development and implementation.Thesis is embargoed until 31st December 2025.
| Date of Award | Dec 2024 |
|---|---|
| Original language | English |
| Awarding Institution |
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| Supervisor | Emma Berry (Supervisor), Christopher Graham (Supervisor) & Rebecca Houghton (Supervisor) |
Keywords
- type 1 diabetes
- paediatric diabetes management
- psychological intervention
- acceptance and commitment therapy
- caregiver wellbeing