Fear of Hypoglycemia in Children and Adolescents with Diabetes

Abstract

Extended a study of diabetic adults which showed that fear of hypoglycemia is common and may affect diabetic control. That study evaluated the psychometric properties of the Hypoglycemic Fear Survey (HFS), an instrument designed to measure fear of hypoglycemia. The present study evaluated the psychometric properties of the HFS with diabetic youth. The HFS was completed by 128 Ss on arrival at a diabetes summer camp, by 127 Ss at the end of the 7-day camp, and by 74 Ss 12 weeks after camp. The results support the internal consistency and test-retest reliability of the HFS with this age group. Factor analytic and multiple regression techniques support the construct validity of the scale. HFS scores enhanced prediction of diabetic control. The HFS appears to be useful as a research tool with children and adolescents, although cross-validation is needed before clinical use can be justified.