Factors Influencing Body Image Among Children with Type 1 Diabetes

Purpose: This study examines the factors influencing the body image of Korean children with type-I diabetes. Methods: The data were collected from 65 children (ages 9-15) who attended a DM management camp in 2004. Nine items from Offer's Self-ImageQuestionnaire (OSIQ-revised), which was modified and standardized to the Korean population by Hong, Kim, and Shin, were used to measure the self body image. Descriptive and correlational analyses were performed by using SPSS 13.0. Results: Although not statistically significant, children's self body image decreased as they became older. The body image and age were found to be significantly correlated. Conclusions: The results suggest the need for an effective intervention program to improve the self body image among children with type-I diabetes. In this regard, nursing intervention or educational programs may be beneficial for inducing positive self body image.