Research on childhood epilepsy has predominantly used quantitative methodologies to examine the impact of epilepsy on young people and their families. These studies generally give a negative picture of the condition, which is at odds with a strengths-based social work perspective, and provide little understanding of young people's experiences of living with epilepsy. A systematic review of qualitative studies that explored young people's perspectives was conducted. Inclusion criteria were as follows: young people ages 13 to 18 years diagnosed with epilepsy, qualitative data collection methods, studies published in English-language peer-reviewed journals, and gray literature. Of 501 abstracts identified, 52 full-length texts were reviewed, with 17 studies being included for final analysis. The emergent themes were seizures and medications; relationships; issues and concerns involving their families, peers, and schools; and young people's reactions to epilepsy. It is essential to understand issues presented by young people for improving practice and developing services, as these issues highlight areas for potential social work interventions. It is also essential to adopt a strengths perspective when considering these findings and implications for hospital social work, as young people's experiences were not always negative.
Keywords: adolescents; epilepsy; qualitative studies; systematic review.
© 2017 National Association of Social Workers.