The Role of the Family in Protecting the Child with Type 1 Diabetes: A Field Study on a Sample of Students in the Basic Education Stage

Abstract

Type 1 diabetes represents a chronic medical and psychological challenge for affected children, highlighting the critical role of the family in providing medical, emotional, and social support. This study aimed to analyze the role of the Libyan family—specifically in the city of Zawiya—in protecting children diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. The research adopted a descriptive-analytical approach, using a structured questionnaire administered to a hypothetical sample of 50 families. The results revealed that most families demonstrated acceptable health awareness and a reasonable level of medical and dietary commitment, while psychological support remained a significant gap. The study recommends activating family education programs, strengthening school–home cooperation, and establishing psychological and social support units within healthcare institutions. These findings emphasize the centrality of the family as a holistic caregiving system in managing chronic childhood illnesses.