Status
The pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) was completed in March 2015. We will be applying for funding to conduct a definitive RCT.
Principal Investigator: Stinson, J.
Co-Investigator(s): Ruskin, D, Campbell, F, Forferon, P, Ahola Kohut, S.
Funded by: Investigator funded
Background: Chronic pain in children and adolescents is a common problem. Unrelieved or undertreated chronic pain can negatively impact all aspects of health-related quality of life (HRQL). Adolescence is a sensitive period for developing one’s sense of self, which often occurs in the context of peer relationships. However, this process is disrupted in adolescents with chronic pain as they try to manage their symptoms. Adolescents with chronic pain conditions may perceive behaviours of their healthy friends as unsupportive in various social situations resulting in these adolescents feeling different from their peers. Increasing social supports for adolescents with chronic pain would be an essential endeavor as they may be particularly vulnerable to long-term social isolation.
Objective: To develop and examine the impact of a iPeer2Peer (iP2P) support program on health outcomes and HRQL of adolescents with chronic pain using a phased approach.
Design: A waitlist randomized control trial with a sample size of 40 participants will be used to test the feasibility and impact of the VP2P support program intervention for adolescents with chronic pain.
Procedure: Participants are being recruited from the Pain Clinic at The Hospital for Sick Children and randomized into one of two online peer support intervention groups (experimental and control groups). The study takes place over two months and online questionnaires will be completed at baseline and study endpoint.