Emotional and behavioural difficulties in children with diabetes: a controlled comparison with siblings and peers

This study describes a comparison of children with insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) with two control groups: the sibling nearest to them in age, and peers matched for gender and age. A broad range of emotional and behavioural difficulties were assessed using the Conners' Teachers' and Parents' rating scales (CTRS 39 and CPRS 93). Individually completed children's questionnaires provided qualitative data about the children's problems. The results of the study showed markedly higher scores for the children with diabetes on the parent scales on factors such as hyperactivity, psychosomatic and restless/disorganized, in comparison to their siblings, but not their peers. These differences were not found on the Teachers' Scales. The findings are discussed in terms of parental perceptions of children with diabetes and the difficulties these children and their siblings experience in their lives. Suggestions are made for further research.