The lived experiences of adolescents with sickle cell disease in Kingston, Jamaica.
OBJECTIVE
To explore the lived experiences of adolescents with sickle cell disease, in Kingston, Jamaica.


METHODS
A descriptive qualitative design was used for this research. In-depth interviews were conducted with six adolescents with sickle cell disease at a Sickle Cell Unit operated by the University of the West Indies. Interviews were audiotaped, transcribed, and thematically analyzed.


RESULTS
The majority of the adolescents demonstrated a positive self-concept. They reported strong family, school, and peer support which made them feel accepted. All were actively engaged in social activities such as parties, but had challenges participating in sporting activities. Various coping strategies were utilized to address challenges of the disease including praying, watching television, and surfing the Internet.


CONCLUSIONS
Sickle cell disease can be very challenging for the adolescent, but with positive self-concept and increased social support, especially from family and peers, these adolescents were able to effectively cope with their condition and live productive lives.
The UWI School of Nursing, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of the West Indies, Kingston, Jamaica.
Andrea Brown
AB
Forrester
The UWI School of Nursing, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of the West Indies, Kingston, Jamaica.
Antoinette
A
Barton-Gooden
The UWI School of Nursing, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of the West Indies, Kingston, Jamaica.
Cynthia
C
Pitter
The UWI School of Nursing, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of the West Indies, Kingston, Jamaica; jaslindo@hotmail.com; jascinth.lindo02@uwimona.edu.jm.
Jascinth L M
JL
Lindo
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000293:Adolescent; D000294:Adolescent Behavior / Q000523:psychology*; D000755:Anemia, Sickle Cell / Q000523:psychology*; D001294:Attitude to Health; D005190:Family / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007563:Jamaica; D008297:Male; D010379:Peer Group; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012649:Self Concept; D012944:Social Support; D013334:Students / Q000523:psychology*; D055815:Young Adult
Adolescence; Jamaica; lived experience; psychosocial; sickle cell disease