Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 25, 2025

Resolving Water, Proteins, and Lipids from In Vivo Confocal Raman Spectra of Stratum Corneum through a Chemometric Approach
Published on: September 26, 2019
Provider perceptions and practices for appearance-related psychosocial distress caused by dermatologic disease in
Vivien Chen1, Fernanda Bellodi Schmidt1
1Dr. Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
Background/Objectives:
Differences in appearance are often stigmatized in society, and dermatologic disease can lead to psychological and social sequelae that significantly impact patient quality of life. However, discrepancy between patient-reported and physician-assessed psychological distress raises a question of how clinicians are prepared in recognizing and managing the psychosocial impact of a child's skin condition. We aim to identify current practices among healthcare providers toward properly addressing appearance-related psychosocial distress in pediatric dermatology patients.
Methods:
Surveys assessing provider attitude and practices to appearance-related distress were distributed to members of the Society of Pediatric Dermatology via the Pediatric Dermatology Research Alliance, and Florida Chapter of American Academy of Pediatrics.
Results:
Over half of respondents report encountering appearance-related psychosocial distress on a daily basis and believe screening to be important. However, only 14% use a validated screening tool and 18% screen all patients. Major obstacles to generalized screening were limited time and staffing. Self-reported knowledge and management of appearance-related psychosocial distress includes direct counseling and referrals to local support groups, mental health providers, specialized summer camps, and school-affiliated resources. Nevertheless, 86% expressed interest in learning more about appearance-related psychosocial distress, particularly about patient education and resources.
Conclusions:
Although clinicians frequently encounter appearance-related distress with pediatric dermatology patients, screening is selective and lacks standardization. Self-reported knowledge and management is comprehensive, but there is a need for increased training in patient education and resources.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Changes in Skin Color: Clinical Perspectives
Albinism
Albinism is a genetic disorder that affects (completely or partially) the coloring of skin, hair, and eyes. The defect is primarily...
Skin Diseases and Disorders
Gram-positive Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. are responsible for many of the most common skin infections. However, many...
Self-Discrepancy and Its Effects
Impression Management Techniques I: Managing Appearances
Self-Evaluation: Self-Enhancement and Self-Verification
Sources of Self-Esteem I: Family Experience

