Helping the burned child to adapt

Adaptation in burned children is multifaceted and complex due not only to etiologic variables but also to age-specific developmental issues and the level of family development. Parental and peer support are identified in the literature as major contributors to higher levels of self-esteem and adaptation. The potential for these levels of adaptation is complicated by the number of burn-injured children residing in chaotic, dysfunctional families with limited ability to support psychosocial rehabilitation. Various interventions are presented as methods of addressing the social/emotional needs of higher-functioning patients and families.