Abstract
Teenagers with chronic illnesses gain uniquely increased awareness of the triumphs, challenges, and responsibilities associated with their condition. Although some studies have explored the experiences of adolescents with cancer, few have studied other chronic illness groups. Therefore, the purpose of this phenomenological qualitative study was to explore adolescent perceptions of living and growing with a chronic illness. 12 individuals (ages 13-17) diagnosed with one or more chronic health conditions participated in a semi-structured interview. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Using interpretative phenomenological analysis, five themes were generated by the researchers: (1) trajectory of illness over time, (2) illness- and treatment-related restrictions, (3) interpersonal concerns, (4) reaching acceptance, and (5) perceived gains/benefits. Participants identified negative aspects of a chronic illness while also noting positive impacts on their lives. Despite little overlap in diagnoses, similar themes and experiences were present among participants, suggesting some level of generalizability among chronic health conditions.