Australian health professionals' perspectives of psychosocial adjustment to visible differences: A qualitative analysis of pediatric populations. (June 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gee, Caroline; Maskell, Jessica; Newcombe, Peter; Kimble, Roy; Williamson, Heidi
• Is Part Of: Body image. Volume 33(2020)
• Page Start: 13
• Page End: 26
• Publication Date: 2020-06
• Subjects: Children -- Young people -- Appearance-related distress -- Psychosocial adjustment -- Health professionals -- Visible difference; Body image -- Periodicals; Body image -- Research -- Periodicals; Body Image -- Periodicals; 306.4613
• DOI: 10.1016/j.bodyim.2020.02.004
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1740-1445

Abstract

Highlights: Adjustment to a visible difference is complex for children and young people. Appearance-related psychosocial issues are variable, dynamic, yet can be enduring. Adjustment is complicated by developmental, sociocultural and parental influences. Key domains of adjustment are proposed for pediatric populations. Abstract: Living with a visible difference (e.g., disfigurement) can compromise a child's psychological wellbeing. Although some children can adjust well, others can develop a range of appearance-related issues such as social anxiety, low self-esteem, and body dissatisfaction. However, current research fails to confirm what factors contribute to appearance-related distress, and what factors buffer the consequences of living with a visible difference. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with 16 Australian specialist health professionals who care for children with visible differences. Interviews explored the type of appearance-related psychosocial concerns presented to a pediatric hospital, perspectives on the impact of appearance-related distress, as well as factors and processes that health professionals perceive influence adjustment. Data were subjected to inductive thematic analysis. Rich evidence was offered by health professionals, which demonstrated deep understanding of the psychological wellbeing of their patients. Three themes were identified: Mind, Body, and Soul ; Stages of Life ; and Individual Differences . Findings highlighted the complexity of appearance-related distress, with individual differences in adjustment, and the powerful impact it can have on a child's short and long-term psychosocial wellbeing. The importance of reaching consensus in the conceptualisation and measurement of psychological wellbeing is stressed, and key domains associated with adjustment are proposed.