Psychosocial challenges for children with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus.

This article describes the particular relevance of Erik Erikson's psychosocial stages of development for children with insulin-dependent diabetes. The developmental issues for young children centering on trust, autonomy, initiative, and industry have special significance for children with diabetes. Although the issues faced in each of Erikson's psychosocial stages are present in every stage, behaviors are manifested differently at each stage. Practical suggestions are provided for families and healthcare providers living with or working with children of various ages who have diabetes.