“I’m a bit more free”: Lived symptom experiences in adolescents with functional abdominal pain disorders after internet-delivered psychological treatment

Studies of internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy (ICBT) have documented its efficacy for pediatric Functional Abdominal Pain Disorders (FAPDs), but few have detailed how adolescents experience this. We investigated the lived symptom experiences of eight adolescents (age 13–17 years) with FAPDs, who had received ICBT. Semi-structured interviews were conducted using photo-elicitation, and analyzed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, identifying three main themes; “Power of thoughts” describes the impact of thoughts on understanding symptoms and self. “Freedom in new behaviors” explores behavior changes in the adolescents and their families. “Mediators of change; why not give it a chance?” explores the helpful treatment-parts and the adolescents’ approach toward it. The findings support the positive effects of ICBT for pediatric FAPDs. Specific treatment elements motivated the adolescents, who experienced acquiring self-agency and improved symptom management. An encouraging secondary benefit was the experienced change of family-relationships, likely to further enhance the personal growth of the adolescent.