Fig. 4

Diagram of transactional family dynamics and external supports for children with T1D and caregivers

Legend: Central part of the figure shows the transactional dynamics within a family with a child with T1D, independent of the living arrangements of the family. These interactions are between the parents, between each parent and each child (including the child with T1D), and among siblings including interactions with the child who has T1D. These dynamics are also affected by external factors: (i) spontaneous social interactions with other family members, extended family, and professional relationships as well as school friends and teachers for the child. (ii) Another form of support is through educational interactions with the healthcare team that can influence the way children and caregivers react to the disease and use treatment technologies. (iii) Finally, the family dynamic is also influenced by the participation of the child with T1D and the caregiver to specific communities of practice where they can meet peers to exchange experiences and ask questions. Once quality of life, resilience and mental health improve in one family member, this leads to an improvement in other family members. Figure 4 describes this dynamic