The analysis of epidemiological data shows a steady increase in the number of children affected with type 1 diabetes. The treatment is complicated and places several demands on children (i.e.learning new skills). Diabetologists have been looking for ways to effectively improve the treatment process so that early complications could be avoided. In order to achieve a good glycemic control, the cooperation between the child, its family and the diabetological team is necessary. The family may be both a risk factor and a supporting factor which positively affects the desired health-related behaviours of their children. The article presents selected difficulties associated with shaping positive health – related behaviours in the group of children with type I diabetes based on the systemic approach.

Key words: child, family, type 1 diabetes, risk factors, positive health-related behaviours.