| Summary: | Background and Objectives: Diabetes is a chronic condition that requires intensive management for optimal health. This study investigated the relationship between children's involvement in household chores, their independence in completing these tasks, and their diabetes self-management. Methods: Data for this cross-sectional study was collected from a Pediatric Diabetes Clinic. Fifty-four children participated (average age 13.5 ± 2.53). The CHORES questionnaire was utilized to determine participation and independence in completing chores. For diabetes management, the SCI-R questionnaire was used to measure adherence to recommended blood sugar monitoring, exercise, nutrition, and medication regimens. Results: There were positive correlations between SCI-R scores and the participation CHORES scale (r =.462, p = <.00), assistance CHORES scale (r =.564, p = <.001). Chores participation predicted diabetes management (participation CHORES with β =.56, p = <.01, participation self-care CHORES with β =.38, p = <.05, assistance CHORES with β =.67, p = <.01, and assistance in family care CHORES with β =.35, p = <.05). Conclusions: Our findings suggest that children who not only participate in more chores but are also more independent in their completion report a greater ability of diabetes self-management. Implications for healthcare providers and parents are discussed.
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