# Pride and pain – a lifespan-informed, identity-affirming approach to paediatric pain in 2SLGBTQIA+ youth: panel discussion at the international symposium for pediatric pain

## TL;DR

This paper discusses how trans and queer youth experience pain differently and calls for more inclusive and affirming approaches in healthcare.

## Contribution

The paper introduces a lifespan-informed and identity-affirming approach to understanding and managing pain in 2SLGBTQIA+ youth.

## Key findings

- Trans and queer youth's pain experiences are often overlooked in research and clinical settings.
- Identity suppression and lack of inclusive care contribute to the biopsychosocial dimensions of pain in these youth.
- The paper advocates for systemic changes in healthcare to better address the needs of 2SLGBTQIA+ youth with chronic pain.

## Abstract

Pain in paediatric populations is increasingly understood as a biopsychosocial phenomenon. However, the experiences of trans and queer youth remain underrepresented in both research, clinical practice, and education.

This paper is an edited transcription of a panel discussion titled “Pain and Pride” which was hosted by Priss Cryption, a drag persona, at the International Symposium on Pediatric Pain in 2025 at Glasgow, United Kingdom. The aim of the panel was to explore chronic pain in trans and queer youth through an intersectional and lifespan-informed lens. Panelists included Jaris Swidrovich (Priss Cryption), Lauren Harrison, Katelynn Boerner, and Emre Ilhan.

Drawing on lived experience, clinical practice, and research, the panelists were able to highlight the biopsychosocial and political dimensions of pain, the role of identity suppression, and the urgent need for inclusive and affirming care across developmental stages.

This paper presented in the form of a dialogue contributes to the growing discourse on identity-informed paediatric pain management and calls for systemic transformation in clinical, research, and educational settings.