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Psychosocial functioning differences in pediatric burn survivors compared with healthy norms
Jessica Maskell1, Peter Newcombe, Graham Martin
1Centre for Children's Burns and Trauma Research, Queensland Children's Medical Research Institute, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, The University of Queensland, Royal Children's Hospital, Brisbane, QLD 4029, Australia. j.maskell@uqconnect.edu.au.
Summary
Pediatric burn survivors experience lower quality of life and more emotional problems, especially concerning appearance. However, their self-concept remains comparable to healthy peers, highlighting the need for psychosocial support.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Psychology
- Trauma Recovery
- Quality of Life Research
Background:
- Burn injuries are highly traumatic for children and adolescents, causing acute distress and long-term psychosocial challenges.
- Understanding the impact on health-related quality of life (HRQoL), psychopathology, and self-concept is crucial for effective support.
- Scarring and altered appearance present unique challenges for pediatric burn survivors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare HRQoL, psychopathology, and self-concept in pediatric burn survivors versus healthy controls.
- To assess the specific impact of burn injuries on perceived physical appearance.
- To identify areas requiring targeted psychosocial interventions.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 66 pediatric burn survivors (ages 8-17) and their caregivers across six burn centers.
- Utilized validated instruments: Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory, Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, and Piers-Harris Self-Concept Scale.
- Compared participant scores with published normative data and a matched pediatric cancer sample for appearance.
Main Results:
- Pediatric burn survivors reported significantly higher emotional/behavioral problems and lower HRQoL compared to controls.
- No significant differences in self-concept were found between burn survivors and healthy peers.
- Burn survivors reported poorer perceived physical appearance than a pediatric cancer sample.
Conclusions:
- Burn injuries negatively impact pediatric HRQoL, particularly concerning scarring and appearance, despite normative self-concept.
- Psychosocial support is essential for developing coping strategies and managing social difficulties.
- Interventions should address both the psychological and social aspects of burn recovery to improve overall well-being.
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