This literature review aims to explore the perceptions and experiences of adolescents living with Type 1 Diabetes, and its impact on their lives. The prevalence and the number of adolescents living with this condition are rapidly increasing in western societies. Therefore, it is imperative that these adolescents’ views and experiences are well researched and understood, so they can receive the optimum support they need. A systematic database search identified studies conducted between 2004 and 2014, from 5 different countries. Most participants in the studies were adolescents between the ages of 13-17, although some studies included participants from 11 to 18 years. Key findings identified were striving for autonomy, parental conflicts, yearning for social acceptance and concerns regarding diabetes education. Psychosocial, management and knowledge of type 1 diabetes were the major themes identified following the thematic analysis. The psychosocial impact of living with type 1 diabetes was significant amongst adolescents. Therefore, they would benefit from more in-depth research on this subject, identifying contemporary and innovative ways to help them cope better with their condition
