Youth with Chronic Illness Forming Identities through Leisure

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to develop an understanding of the ways leisure is influential in identity development and maintenance for youth with chronic illness. Drawing on a symbolic interactionist perspective, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 30 participants who reflected on their chronic illness experiences during adolescence and emerging adulthood. Data were analyzed using a grounded theory approach. The findings suggest that leisure played a role in shaping the identities of participants in three ways. Specifically, chronic illness made it difficult for some participants to (a) present idealized identities through leisure, (b) fit in with peers through leisure, and (c) develop an identity through action.

Keywords:

• chronic illness
• identity
• youth