Abstract
The importance of physical activity, sedentary behaviour, and sleep behaviour in adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D) has been explored in isolation. However, adolescents experience health benefits when these behaviours are balanced appropriately throughout the day, and are considered to be interconnected rather than isolated. The aim of this study was to investigate the perspectives of adolescents living with T1D towards these behaviours collectively. The participants were 15 adolescents (aged 11-18 years) with T1D, recruited using online methods and word of mouth. Online semi-structured interviews were transcribed using intelligent verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis. We identified the following four central themes and five subthemes: (1) sleep and physical activity are understood and valued above sedentary behaviour; (2) recognition of movement behaviours' interconnection; (3) movement behaviours' interaction with health outcomes (mood, glycaemic control, and glycaemic control as a barrier to movement behaviours); and (4) movement behaviours within the environmental context of the adolescent (school and caregivers). Adolescents with T1D are aware of the interconnectedness of each movement behaviour and the positive influence a balanced approach can have on mood and T1D management. The findings provide important information for future holistic interventions promoting healthy behaviours that target the adolescent, their school environment, and their caregivers.