The impact of JRA on children, adolescents, and their families. Current research and implications for future studies

Abstract

This article focusses on the impact of Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA) on children, adolescents, and their families. Investigations reported in the literature that consider the etiologic role of psychopathology and JRA, psychologic adjustment/maladjustment of adolescents with JRA, family adaptation to chronic illness, and changes in the family that affect health outcomes and treatment compliance are critically reviewed. Methodologic and research design issues are discussed in relation to previous investigations, and implications for future research are presented.