Alopecia Areata: Factors That Impact Children and Adolescents

Abstract

Research suggests that several factors affect children and adolescents with alopecia areata (AA). While hair loss is mostly associated with individuals undergoing chemotherapy, AA also causes individuals to lose the hair on their scalp and elsewhere on the body. This loss can be particularly devastating to children and adolescents, and can affect them socially, as well as psychologically. A mixed method research design was used to combine survey data with interview transcripts and field notes to capture a more detailed picture of AA and its effect on children and adolescents. The data reported here were extracted from a larger study utilizing nine demographic items, four independent variable items (gender, age, duration of diagnosis, age of onset), and 27 dependent variable items regarding impact factors. Subsequently, six follow-up interview questions were used with a small group for additional context. An exploratory factor analysis revealed five impact factors: Confidence/Self-Esteem, Psychological Effects, Appearance/Acceptance, Socialization, and Communication. Female participants reported significantly greater difficulty adjusting and managing AA than did their male counterparts. While most participants revealed a positive attitude about themselves, the majority were affected psychologically by this condition. Open communication with family and friends gave comfort and support to the vast majority.