• Delane Linkiewich, Katherine C Dib, Paula A Forgeron, Bruce D Dick, and McMurtryC MeghanCMDepartment of Psychology, University of Guelph, Guelph.Department of Anesthesia, McMaster Children's Hospital, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada..
• Department of Psychology, University of Guelph, Guelph.
• Clin J Pain. 2024 May 1; 40 (5): 288298288-298.

ObjectivesA biopsychosocial approach to understanding and treating pain is crucial; however, there are limited socially targeted interventions for adolescents with chronic pain (ACP). Peer support interventions implemented with other populations are associated with positive outcomes. ACPs perceive peer support to have high potential value. This study explored the preferences of ACP regarding the content and design of a group peer support intervention.MethodsFourteen ACP (M age : 15.21 y; 9 females; 3 males, 1 nonbinary, and 1 gender questioning) completed a virtual interview and survey. Interviews were analyzed using inductive qualitative content analysis, and surveys were analyzed using descriptive statistics.ResultsAdolescents described how they want to both talk and do activities together within a fun and casual environment with a facilitator present-ideally, someone with lived experience of chronic pain. Preferences were for a medium-sized group intervention that was in-person, at a consistent time on a weekday after school, and semi-structured. Barriers to attending and engaging in the potential group peer intervention were also discussed.DiscussionACPs desire a facilitated socially focused intervention that provides them with the opportunity to spend time with other ACPs. A group peer support environment where ACPs can provide and receive peer support through sharing their experiences with others who understand them as well as engage in activities was described. The findings from this study provide insights for the development of a group peer support intervention.Copyright © 2024 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.

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