"Ur skin is the thing that everyone sees and you cant change it!": Exploring the appearance-related concerns of young people with psoriasis

Fox, Fiona E.; Rumsey, Nichola; Morris, Marianne

Abstract

Purpose: The failure of research to capture the qualitative experiences of young people who have chronic skin conditions means that their psychosocial needs are poorly understood. Using a grounded theory approach, this study facilitated group discussions between adolescents with psoriasis in order to rapidly identify themes about their support needs. Methods: Three online focus groups were hosted in a real time forum. In total, 8 young people aged 11-18 years were recruited through the websites of psoriasis support organizations. Focus groups lasted an average of 1 hour and data was analysed using grounded theory techniques. Results: Appearance-related concerns are central to the experiences of young people with psoriasis. Participants constructed their individual struggle (It and Me) in physical, emotional, motivational and intellectual terms. A strong sense of Us developed as participants recognized the value of meeting peers with psoriasis. This enabled groups to blame Them for their negative social experiences. Discussion: The findings are discussed in the context of literature around adolescence and appearance. It is suggested that the experience of negative social encounters in adolescence may have long-term implications for appearance anxiety specifically and self-esteem generally. The potential of peer support to improve these outcomes is considered. © 2007 Informa UK Ltd.

Citation

Fox, F. E., Rumsey, N., & Morris, M. (2007). "Ur skin is the thing that everyone sees and you cant change it!": Exploring the appearance-related concerns of young people with psoriasis. Developmental Neurorehabilitation, 10(2), 133-141. https://doi.org/10.1080/13638490701217594

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Publication Date: Oct 16, 2007
• Journal: Developmental Neurorehabilitation
• Print ISSN: 1751-8423
• Electronic ISSN: 1751-8431
• Publisher: Informa Healthcare
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 10
• Issue: 2
• Pages: 133-141
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/13638490701217594
• Keywords: appearance, adolescents, psoriasis, peer support, visible difference
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/1032696
• Publisher URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/13638490701217594