Chronic pain in children and young people: A focus on social context, familial impact and meaning making

Pain is a common experience in childhood, with a sizeable number of children and young people experiencing pain that does not subside. For these young people, experiencing long term pain can have a harmful effect on their lives, resulting in emotional distress, impaired social and familial functioning as well as physical disability. Chronic pain is not experienced in isolation and the effects extend beyond the young person, influencing the wider family.

Existing research studies have shown that mothers and fathers of young people with ongoing pain reporting poor emotional functioning and stressors unique to parenting a young person with ongoing pain. The current studentship would build on existing research to look in more detail at the familial experience of paediatric chronic pain, focusing in particular in studying families over time. This may also include a focus on how young people and families think about and make sense of ongoing pain.

Dr Jordan is seeking a student with a degree in psychology or related discipline, with a predicted or actual grade at 1st/2:1 level or equivalent. A demonstrable interest in the study of young people, families and/or health and well-being is a requirement.