TY  - JOUR
A1  - Warschburger, Petra
A1  - Petersen, Ann-Christin
A1  - von Rezori, Roman Enzio
A1  - Buchallik, Friederike
A1  - Baumeister, Harald
A1  - Holl, Reinhard
A1  - Minden, Kirsten
A1  - Müller-​Stierlin, Annabel Sandra
A1  - Reinauer, Christina
A1  - Staab, Doris
A1  - COACH consortium, 
T1  - A prospective investigation of developmental trajectories of psychosocial adjustment in adolescents facing a chronic condition - study protocol of an observational, multi-center study
JF  - BMC Pediatrics
N2  - Background
Relatively little is known about protective factors and the emergence and maintenance of positive outcomes in the field of adolescents with chronic conditions. Therefore, the primary aim of the study is to acquire a deeper understanding of the dynamic process of resilience factors, coping strategies and psychosocial adjustment of adolescents living with chronic conditions.

Methods/design
We plan to consecutively recruit N = 450 adolescents (12–21 years) from three German patient registries for chronic conditions (type 1 diabetes, cystic fibrosis, or juvenile idiopathic arthritis). Based on screening for anxiety and depression, adolescents are assigned to two parallel groups – “inconspicuous” (PHQ-9 and GAD-7 < 7) vs. “conspicuous” (PHQ-9 or GAD-7 ≥ 7) – participating in a prospective online survey at baseline and 12-month follow-up. At two time points (T1, T2), we assess (1) intra- and interpersonal resiliency factors, (2) coping strategies, and (3) health-related quality of life, well-being, satisfaction with life, anxiety and depression. Using a cross-lagged panel design, we will examine the bidirectional longitudinal relations between resiliency factors and coping strategies, psychological adaptation, and psychosocial adjustment. To monitor Covid-19 pandemic effects, participants are also invited to take part in an intermediate online survey.

Discussion
The study will provide a deeper understanding of adaptive, potentially modifiable processes and will therefore help to develop novel, tailored interventions supporting a positive adaptation in youths with a chronic condition. These strategies should not only support those at risk but also promote the maintenance of a successful adaptation.

Trial registration
German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS), no. DRKS00025125. Registered on May 17, 2021.
KW  - Chronic conditions
KW  - Adolescents
KW  - Prospective
KW  - Quality of life
KW  - Resiliency
KW  - Coping
KW  - Protective factors
KW  - Type 1 diabetes
KW  - Juvenile idiopathic arthritis
KW  - Cystic fibrosis
Y1  - 2021
U6  - https://doi.org/10.1186/s12887-021-02869-9
SN  - 1471-2431
VL  - 21
SP  - 1
EP  - 13
PB  - BMC pediatrics
CY  - London
ER  -