Affiliation:
1. University of the West of England, UK
Abstract
Injuries or conditions that affect appearance can increase adolescents’ risk of psychosocial and interpersonal difficulties and may also impact on romantic relationships – an important aspect of adolescent development. A mixed method online approach explored the romantic experiences of 40 adolescents with a variety of visible differences. Young people identified appearance-related romantic concerns that cause distress, and impede the development and enjoyment of romantic relations. In contrast, some shared positive experiences and evidence of attitudes and behaviours that appear to protect against these concerns. Adolescents requested online peer support specific to their appearance-related needs. These findings can inform intervention development.
Reference43 articles.
1. American Psychological Association (2002) Developing adolescents: a reference for professionals. Washington, DC: The Maternal and Child Health Bureau, Health Resources and Services Administration, US Department of Health and Human Services.
2. Young people, smoking and gender a qualitative exploration
3. Using thematic analysis in psychology
4. The mass media and American adolescents’ health