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Dealing with chronic pain: giving voice to the experiences of mothers with chronic pain and their children

journal contribution
posted on 2008-04-01, 00:00 authored by Subhadra EvansSubhadra Evans, L de Souza
Despite the substantial monetary, personal, and social cost of chronic pain, research into the family life of sufferers is wanting. Parents dealing with chronic pain, as well as their children, have been particularly neglected. Using qualitative interview data from 16 mothers suffering from a variety of chronic pain conditions, and their 21 children, aged 6 to 12 years, we explored the impact of maternal chronic pain on mothers and children. Consistent with a gains-and-loss theory and the strengths perspective, the findings revealed both positive and challenging aspects of pain. Despite the presence of risks--including maternal stress, parenting difficulties, and children's distress--maternal chronic pain also provided opportunities for growth in many families. The findings suggest that maternal chronic pain can catalyze enhanced development as well as adversity. Researchers and clinicians should be aware of the pitfalls facing families dealing with chronic pain, while remaining open to the possibility that some families might flourish.

History

Journal

Qualitative health research

Volume

18

Issue

4

Pagination

489 - 500

Publisher

Sage Publications

Location

London, Eng.

ISSN

1049-7323

Language

eng

Publication classification

C Journal article; C1.1 Refereed article in a scholarly journal

Copyright notice

2008, Sage Publications