Experiences of participation in activities among girls with juvenile idiopathic arthritis: A qualitative study

Abstract

This study aimed to describe how girls with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) experience participation in activities in relation to their disease. Semi-structured interviews of eight girls with JIA in ages 12–15 were recorded and transcribed as a whole. Data have been analysed with qualitative content analysis. Participation was influenced by disease symptoms, which could result in absence and exclusion from participation in activities. The experience of participation was affected by the participant’s choice of using strategies and making adjustments during activities. Social environment could both increase and decrease participation through treatment and type of knowledge about the disease. Also the physical environment could affect participation due to the climate or road and ground conditions. We could conclude that the experience of participation among girls with JIA was affected by disease symptoms, perceptions of selves, disease and the use of strategies, and also the social and physical environment. This indicates the need to address participation in clinical practice and the importance to include different health professionals, teachers and other personnel involved in the child’s schooling.