Adolescent Interrupted: the Experience of Adolescents Living with Ostomy

Abstract

This study explores the experiences of four adults who reflect upon their experiences, retrospectively, of being an adolescent living with an ostomy. A narrative research approach guided the collection and analysis of data elicited using in-depth interview, presenting each account in the form of a story. The stories serve as a representation of each person's experiences that enables and enriches their understanding. A preliminary literature search revealed a paucity of research investigating the psychological and emotional concerns of adolescents living with an ostomy. This is cause for concern in respect to healthcare, as the knowledge provided by these missing voices does not reach the ears of health professionals. The ability to provide care that is responsive to the needs of adolescents living with an ostomy is therefore diminished, and may have a detrimental effect on coping and adjustment for these individuals. Six core themes emerged that communicate the essence of their experience. 1) stolen adolescence: the struggle for normalcy; 2) a puppet at the hand of fate: the struggle to gain control; 3), through the looking glass: the person behind the ostomy; 4) the soul held captive by the body; 5) never to walk alone: the struggle for independence and self reliance; 6) disconnection: the experience of loneliness. The interrelationship of these core themes exists as the embodiment of the experiential whole, metaphorically entitled "The Adolescent Interrupted."This metaphorical description symbolises the cumulative effect of disruption, divergence, and disconnection from normal adolescent life as perceived by the participants in this study. This research contributes to nurses understanding of the physical, psychological, and emotional impact that living with an ostomy has on the adolescent. The findings demonstrate the importance of providing holistic care that addresses, and is responsive to the unique needs of these adolescents in order to lessen the negative impact of the experience and effect positive change.