Young adults living with inflammatory bowel disease : a phenomenological study

Faulkner, Tracy-Lee Elizabeth (2008) Young adults living with inflammatory bowel disease : a phenomenological study. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic condition affecting the digestive system. It is characterized by periods of exacerbation and remission and often poses many difficulties for those living with the disease. Young adulthood is a period with many life transitions. These transitions coupled with living with inflammatory bowel disease present unique challenges for young adults. The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of young adults living with inflammatory bowel disease. There was little qualitative research available on the topic of living with inflammatory bowel disease. It was decided that a phenomenological research approach would provide rich, in-depth description, and understanding of the experience. Three young adult women who met specific criteria participated in the research study. Collection of data occurred through un-structured interviews. Colaizzi's (1978) method of data analysis, including bracketing of assumptions, was used to identify seven essential themes, which when combined best describe the women's experience. The seven themes identified were: (1) dealing with symptoms, a constant struggle, (2) embarrassment: trying to hide the condition, (3) uncertainty: it could flare up at anytime, (4) lost time: interfering with normal life, (5) the double edged sword: treatment can be as difficult as the disease, (6) needing to maintain a supportive environment and (7) accepting the challenge of living with IBD. Through phenomenological inquiry into the lived experience of these young adults with inflammatory bowel disease, a greater understanding of their experience was gained. This understanding helps to enhance nursing's knowledge base on the phenomenon.

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