ABSTRACT
Type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus are prototypical chronic illnesses for which there are no known cures. Treatment is dependent on a set of complex therapeutic decisions that involve titration of pharmaceuticals and lifestyle changes addressing dietary intake and exercise, and that demand careful education of the patient and his or her family to take on these challenges. There is often an extended period during which the patient's treatment is preventive (i.e., the patient is essentially asymptomatic, and the treatment is designed to prevent the development of complications). Motivation may be difficult to maintain during this period. Finally, when and if complications develop, there are profound implications for the patient's quality and length of life. Not surprisingly, these aspects of diabetes have led to an array of studies about the psychological, behavioral, and quality of life aspects of the illness.
