The impact of chronic pain on adolescents and their families: A qualitative investigation of parental perspectives.

BACKGROUND

Understanding the experiences of parents of adolescents with chronic pain is crucial in creating a better experience for all involved throughout the adolescent's chronic pain journey. However, limited qualitative research has explored the experiences of parents of adolescents with chronic pain.

AIMS: This qualitative study explored the lived experiences of parents of adolescents with chronic pain, with a focus on the impact of chronic pain on their child and family life.

Methods

We conducted 12 semi-structured interviews with parents of adolescents with chronic pain receiving care through a pain management program. Data were transcribed and analyzed using inductive thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Seven key themes were generated and divided into two groups: (1) adolescent and (2) family (including both parents and siblings). Groups were determined based on whether the theme referred to the effect of chronic pain on the adolescent or the caregiver or family. The adolescent group included four themes: (1) physical, (2) psychological, (3) social interaction, and (4) school functioning. The family group included three themes: (1) disruption to daily life, (2) emotional, and (3) relationship dynamics.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides a deeper understanding of the negative effect chronic pain can have on adolescents and family life. Our findings call for interventions to mitigate the physical, psychological, and social impact of chronic pain on adolescents. Family level interventions are also needed to support families of adolescents with chronic pain. More research is needed to explore adolescents' own views of their experiences with chronic pain.