The Diabetes Strengths and Resilience Measure for Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes (DSTAR-Teen): Validation of a New, Brief Self-Report Measure

Despite the challenges of managing type 1 diabetes, many adolescents achieve optimal outcomes. A validated measure of diabetes-specific strengths is needed to measure adaptive behaviors and attitudes associated with overcoming challenges and achieving "resilient" outcomes.Baseline data from 260 adolescents (age 14-18 years, M = 15.7 ± 1.1, 60% female, 33% Non-Caucasian, M A1c = 9.1 ± 1.9%) and caregivers in a behavioral intervention trial were analyzed to evaluate psychometric properties of the 12-item self-report Diabetes Strengths and Resilience measure for adolescents (DSTAR-Teen). Reliability and validity were examined in relation to measures of related constructs, regimen adherence, and glycemic outcomes, and confirmatory factor analysis was conducted.Reliability was good (internal consistency: α = .89; item-total correlations: r range = .55-.78). Significant correlations demonstrated construct and criterion validity. A two-factor structure reflecting intrapersonal and interpersonal processes fit the data better than a one-factor solution.The DSTAR-Teen has strong psychometric properties, captures adaptive aspects of adolescents' diabetes management (i.e., "strengths"), and is related to clinical outcomes.