Evaluation of a theoretical model of perceptual accuracy and self-management behavior in pediatric diabetes

This study evaluated a model of perceptual accuracy and self-management behavior in pediatric diabetes. Participants were 169 children and adolescents (10-18 years) attending diabetes summer camps. Error grid analysis quantified global perceptual accuracy and specific blood glucose estimation errors. The mean accuracy index was 15%, failure to detect hyperglycemia being the most frequent error. Path analysis evaluated models for failure to detect hypoglycemia, failure to detect hyperglycemia, and overestimation of normal blood glucose. Results reflected relatively good fit of the data with the models; however, results did not support mediational hypotheses and explained minimal variance in perceptual error. In sum, participants made considerable estimation errors that may affect self-management; however, results did not support the theoretical models in this sample.