This study evaluates the short-term effects of incorporating the structured care of a pet fish into a diabetes self-care routine on glucose control in early adolescents with type 1 diabetes.

Efficacy of treatment for Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is dependent on adherence to self-care behaviors and collaborative parental involvement. Adolescence is a vulnerable time for the deterioration of glycemic control in patients with T1DM. In particular, parental monitoring declines during early adolescence. This often occurs before the child has developed self-efficacy and competence in independently performing diabetes-related tasks, including blood glucose monitoring. Consequently, there is a great need for innovative strategies in early adolescents that promote self-efficacy development and facilitate parental involvement.

Inclusion Criteria:

• age 10-13 years
• diagnosis of T1DM
• duration of T1DM for at least one year
• fluency in English
• two recent consecutive HbA1c values 8.0 - 13%

Exclusion Criteria:

• clinical or laboratory characteristics suggestive of type 2 diabetes mellitus
• involvement in foster care
• dual-home living situation
• severe psychiatric disorders
• developmental delay or cognitive impairment
• current participation in another study that may impact glycemic control
• regular usage of a continuous glucose monitor
• HbA1c > 13% (because these individuals may need a more intensive intervention than this is intended to provide).