Challenges and strategies of children and adolescents with inflammatory bowel disease: a qualitative examination
2007

Understanding the Lives of Children and Adolescents with Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Sample size: 80 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Nicholas David B, Otley Anthony, Smith Claire, Avolio Julie, Munk Marla, Griffiths Anne M

Primary Institution: The Hospital for Sick Children

Hypothesis

How do children and adolescents with inflammatory bowel disease perceive their quality of life and daily experiences?

Conclusion

Children and adolescents with inflammatory bowel disease experience significant challenges but also develop coping strategies and benefit from social support.

Supporting Evidence

  • Children with IBD often feel vulnerable and lack control over their lives.
  • Support from family and friends is crucial for coping with IBD.
  • Many children perceive themselves as different from their healthy peers.
  • Effective coping strategies can improve the quality of life for children with IBD.

Takeaway

Kids with a tummy problem called IBD feel different and sometimes sad, but they find ways to cope and get help from family and friends.

Methodology

In-depth interviews were conducted with children and adolescents aged 7 to 19 years about their experiences with IBD.

Limitations

The study may not capture the experiences of all children with IBD, as it focuses on a specific sample.

Participant Demographics

Participants ranged in age from 7 to 19 years, with a mean age of 13.3 years; 44 were male and 36 were female.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1477-7525-5-28

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication