Background: The aim of the study was too investigate the beliefs of young people with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) and their parents, about illness causes and management.
Method: Twenty-one young people with CFS/ME and their parents participated in an open-ended interview.
Results: Infective causes were identified by the majority of respondents, and psychological ones by a minority. Many highlighted reducing activity and resting in symptom management. Positive and negative experiences of psychiatric and psychological treatments were recorded.
Conclusion: Professionals should carefully explore the illness related beliefs of young people with CFS/ME and parental beliefs in order to agree treatment plans.
Keywords: Adolescents; beliefs; chronic fatigue syndrome; exercise; psychological.