Jones_et_al-2018-Clinical_%26_Experimental_Allergy.pdf (846.9 kB)
Exploring what motivates and sustains support group engagement amongst young people with allergies: a qualitative study
journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-20, 14:17 authored by C L Jones, L A Sommereux, H E SmithBackground Positive self-care behaviours are more likely in young people who engage with allergy support groups, but reasons for this association are not well understood. Objectives This study explored how and why young people engage with allergy support groups to identify what activities and resources are beneficial. Methods In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with young people aged 12-21 years who reported engaging with allergy support groups (in person or on-line). Interviews were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic content analysis. Results The 21 participants had a range of allergies; initially most joined support groups on suggestion of their parent/carer although older participants sought groups independently. Feeling included and sharing experiences with people with similar problems/challenges were highly valued. Through membership, young people reported improved self-esteem and confidence in both managing their allergies and lives generally. Information, such as allergy alerts and hard-hitting video campaigns were reported to positively influence adherence to self-care behaviours such as carrying medication which led to sustained engagement. Participants wanted greater availability of allergy support groups, and higher profiles in healthcare and educational settings, as well as through social media. Conclusions and clinical relevance Participants valued the psychological and practical support of networking with others with allergies, and described how membership improved their confidence. This study also provides insight into the ways support groups improve young people’s adherence to medical advice and positive self-care behaviours; participants responded well to hard-hitting video campaigns which appeared to emphasise the severity and susceptibility of anaphylaxis. Participants identified the need for more active promotion of support groups amongst young people and their clinicians, as well as making them available in more localities.
Funding
Understanding why young people with severe allergies join support groups; G1524; ANAPHYLAXIS CAMPAIGN
History
Publication status
- Published
File Version
- Accepted version
Journal
Clinical & Experimental AllergyISSN
0954-7894Publisher
WileyExternal DOI
Issue
9Volume
48Page range
1195-1205Department affiliated with
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine Publications
Full text available
- Yes
Peer reviewed?
- Yes
Legacy Posted Date
2018-06-14First Open Access (FOA) Date
2019-06-14First Compliant Deposit (FCD) Date
2018-06-13Usage metrics
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