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Inflammatory bowel disease and self-esteem in adolescence
H Lindfred1, R Saalman, S Nilsson
1The Queen Silvia Children's Hospital, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Göteborg, Sweden. Helene.Lindfred@vgregion.se
Acta Paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992)
|February 8, 2008
Summary
Adolescents with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) generally have self-esteem similar to healthy peers. However, severe IBD and parental separation increase the risk for lower self-esteem in these young individuals.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Adolescent Psychology
- Chronic Disease Management
Background:
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) affects adolescents, potentially impacting psychosocial well-being.
- Self-esteem is a critical aspect of adolescent development and mental health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare self-esteem levels in adolescents with IBD versus healthy adolescents.
- To identify specific factors associated with self-esteem in adolescents diagnosed with IBD.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the 'I think I am' (ITIA) self-assessment questionnaire for 71 adolescents (10-16 years) with IBD (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, indeterminate colitis).
- Compared self-esteem scores of IBD adolescents with a control group of 1037 school children.
- Employed multiple regression analysis to examine factors influencing self-esteem in the IBD cohort.
Main Results:
- Adolescents with IBD reported self-esteem comparable to healthy peers in a population-based study.
- Disease severity and parental cohabitation status emerged as significant predictors of self-esteem.
- Adolescents with severe IBD and those from single-parent households were identified as being at higher risk for low self-esteem.
Conclusions:
- While the overall self-esteem of adolescents with IBD is similar to controls, specific subgroups are vulnerable.
- Adolescents experiencing severe disease courses require targeted support.
- Particular attention should be directed towards adolescents with IBD who have separated parents to mitigate risks to self-esteem.
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