Functioning, Daily Experiences, Participation, and Quality of Life of Children with Chronic Health Conditions

Dear Colleagues,

Chronic illnesses create challenges and daily stress for millions of children. These demanding and complex life situations may result in consequential emotional and social difficulties that significantly affect quality of life.

Over the past two decades, the prevalence of chronic illnesses and neurodevelopmental disabilities among children has increased in many countries. Such conditions include long-term illness, disability, or medical condition, such as diabetes, arthritis, allergy, cerebral palsy, asthma, cystic fibrosis, celiac disease, epilepsy, ADHD, fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, autism spectrum disorders, etc. The prevalence of chronic health conditions ranges from 3.5% to 35% of children under 17 years old. These children face higher risks of developmental gaps and functional difficulties during childhood and adolescence.

With the shift from a medical to a broader biopsychosocial model of disability, research has expanded and broadened our understanding of the unique characteristics and needs of pediatric populations with chronic health conditions. Considering a developmental perspective is critical for this population. Children and adolescents with chronic conditions often experience limited participation in various life situations, to the detriment of their quality of life.

We are seeking multidisciplinary research that investigates different aspects of functioning, daily experiences, participation, and quality of life in children and adolescents with chronic health conditions. This Special Issue aims to highlight the complexity of coping with chronic health conditions during childhood, adolescence, and the transition to young adulthood. We welcome basic and applied research, including literature reviews, original research, and interventions concerning this important topic.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Prof. Dr. Sara Rosenblum
Dr. Sonya Meyer
Dr. Liat Hen-Herbst
Guest Editors

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