Virtual Peer-to-Peer (VP2P) Support Mentoring for Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA): A Pilot RCT

Virtual Peer-to-Peer Support Mentoring for Adolescents With Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: A Feasibility Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Study Hypothesis: A virtual peer-to-peer support intervention will improve health outcomes and quality of life in adolescents with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis

The aim of this project is to develop and examine the impact of a virtual peer support program on health outcomes and quality of life of adolescents with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis using a waitlist randomized controlled trial. In addition to standard medical care, adolescents in the experimental group will receive a manualized peer mentorship program that will provide modeling and reinforcement by trained young adults aged 16-25 years who have learned to function successfully with their pain. Mentoring sessions consist of 10 sessions of 30-45 minute Skype calls over 8 weeks. Feasibility of the program will be measured in addition to quality of life, physical and emotional symptoms, pain coping, self-efficacy, social support, and self-management skills.

Inclusion Criteria:

• males and females 12-18 years old
• diagnosed with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) by a Rheumatologist (any sub-type)
• able to speak and read English
• access to Internet connection, computer capable of using free Skype software
• willing and able to complete online measures

Exclusion Criteria:

• significant cognitive impairments
• major co-morbid illnesses (i.e., psychiatric conditions) likely to influence HRQL assessment
• participating in peer support or self-management interventions (e.g., Teens Taking Charge).