'I tend to look down on myself'. Some young girls’ experiences with long-term pain: An interview study

Purpose: The study aims to enhance our understanding of how adolescents with chronic pain conditions experience and make sense of their illness, and how cultural norms and ideals shape their illness experiences. Methods: We conducted qualitative interviews with five young girls (aged 15-19) living with chronic pain. A structural narrative analysis, underpinned by narrative theory and method, was employed. The analysis draws from perspectives on societal changes, particularly the trend towards increased individualization. Findings: The young girls associated their pain with distressing events from their past, the feeling of being alone with their pain, and their experience of stress. On one hand, their narratives express individual vulnerability and a need for relational support and belonging. On the other hand, their narratives are characterized by cultural ideals promoting independence, self-sufficiency, and the maintenance of a facade. The stories express a desire to engage in various activities and succeed across different arenas. At the same time, the stories reveal instances of repeated personal failures and diminished self-esteem when they are unable to achieve their goals. Discussion and conclusion: The findings advocate for a multidisciplinary approach, and emphasize the importance of systemic interventions and facilitations to reduce individual burden. Furthermore, the findings underscore the importance of ample support and recognition from the individual’s environment.