Utilizing Structural Equation Modeling to Examine Factors Impacting Health-Related Quality of Life for Emerging Adults with Chronic Pain as They Transition to Adulthood

Abstract

Approximately 5% to 30% of adolescents and emerging adults are living with chronic pain as they navigate the transition from pediatric- to adult-focused health care. However, there is a paucity of research investigating the health care transition experience for emerging adults with chronic pain. The current study aimed to utilize structural equation modeling in a sample of community-recruited emerging adults with chronic pain to: 1) assess a hypothesized measurement model and validate pertinent measures in this understudied population; and 2) assess a hypothesized structural model based in the Individual and Family Self-Management Theory. Findings provide preliminary validation of measures of health literacy, psychological functioning, pain self-efficacy, and health-related quality of life that could be used to identify emerging adults with chronic pain who may be at risk for poorer health outcomes. Additionally, findings highlight the need for longitudinal research studies from preparation in adolescence through integration into adult health care, as well as development of reliable and valid self-management and transition readiness measures, in order to expand the current body of health care transition research and inform the development of tailored interventions to promote more successful health care transition.