Pediatric vs. Adult CGM Psychology

Age-Related Differences

CGM impacts users differently based on developmental stage and life circumstances.

Pediatric Considerations

Social Challenges

• Stigma from visible devices
• Peer questions and attention
• Feeling "different" from classmates

Family Dynamics

• Parental involvement in management
• Autonomy vs. oversight balance
• Sibling dynamics

Psychological Impact

• Can increase stress due to constant monitoring
• Parental anxiety may transfer to child
• Alarm fatigue affects whole family

Adult Considerations

Technology Adaptation

• Technophobia: Resistance to new devices
• Information overload: Difficulty processing data volume

Lifestyle Integration

• Workplace considerations
• Social situations
• Relationship dynamics

Psychological Benefits

• Reduced anxiety about hypoglycemia
• Improved sense of control
• Better understanding of personal patterns

Key Differences Summary

| Aspect | Pediatric | Adult | |--------|-----------|-------| | Primary concern | Social stigma | Technology adoption | | Management style | Needs guidance | Desires autonomy | | Data impact | May stress child | Generally empowering | | Family role | Central | Supportive |

Age-Appropriate Approaches

For Children

• Frame CGM positively ("helper" not "watcher")
• Respect privacy needs as appropriate for age
• Gradual transition of responsibility

For Adults

• Customize technology to comfort level
• Focus on actionable insights, not all data
• Support autonomous decision-making