Understanding the Roles of Romantic Partners and Parents in the Management of Type 1 Diabetes in Emerging Adults

During the emerging adulthood of people with type 1 diabetes, long-term romantic partners may be involved in diabetes management in ways that supplant parental involvement. We examined the perspectives of involvement in diabetes management of the parents and romantic partners of 29 emerging adults with type 1 diabetes, using qualitative interviews and an online survey. When the individuals with diabetes were in long-term romantic relationships, their partners were heavily involved in managing diabetes and providing support; however, when the individuals with diabetes were in short-term relationships or not in a relationship, their parents were described as having the biggest positive impact on their diabetes management. Emerging adults described the involvement of their parents and romantic partners in both positive and negative ways. Romantic relationship status is an important but understudied variable in understanding social involvement and its effects on type 1 diabetes management during emerging adulthood.