Naslov
Psychological effects of skin diseases on children

Autori
Buljan Flander, Gordana

Vrsta, podvrsta i kategorija rada
Sažeci sa skupova, sažetak, stručni

Skup
2. Hrvatski kongres psihodermatologije s međunarodnim sudjelovanjem

Mjesto i datum
Zagreb, Hrvatska, 25.09.2008. - 28.09.2008

Vrsta sudjelovanja
Predavanje

Vrsta recenzije
Nije recenziran

Ključne riječi
Skin diseases; children; psychological effects

Sažetak
Dermatologic problems can result in psychosocial effects like anxiety, depression, and other psychological problems that seriously affect patient's life, especially children’s. Acne, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis are among the most common skin diseases affecting the children. They are also the most studied in how they affect their psychosocial health. Along with the development of different specific research methods of quality of life, there is now a greater knowledge of how skin diseases affect children and adults. According to children, psoriasis and eczema are the two skin conditions that are causing them the greatest distress. Children with serious skin conditions feel that their quality of life is impaired to the same extent as those with chronic illnesses such as epilepsy, renal disease and diabetes. Children with psoriasis are reacting and coping differently, some of them showing little emotional reaction ; others being embarrassed, angry or sad. Some of them may also be apprehensive about their psoriasis getting worse or recurring. Anxiety over rejection by peers is very common, especially as the child moves toward teenage years. Acne in adolescence can affect self-image and assertiveness, factors important in forming friendship and romantic relationships. Children with atopic dermatitis, especially those with severe disease, can develop behavioral and emotional problems. Eczema is also common in children and can impact a child’s ability or desire to take part in school activities, sports and trips, as well the basic relationship with parents. Active eczema causing constant itching and scratching can mean sleepless nights and daytime drowsiness or lack of attention. The high visibility of skin diseases increases the likelihood of stigmatization. Skin diseases should be measured not only by symptoms, but also by physical, psychological, and social parameters. Child's ability to communicate effectively about the disease and his or her feelings us as important as developing ways to help him/her manage the symptoms of disease.

Izvorni jezik
Engleski

Znanstvena područja
Psihologija

POVEZANOST RADA