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Understanding Appearance Concerns in Young People With Cleft Lip ± Palate: A Photo Elicitation Study
Julie Davies1,2,3, Alison Owen1, Amy Burton1
1School of Health, Education, Policing and Sciences, University of Staffordshire, Stoke-on-Trent, UK.
Summary
Young people with cleft lip and palate experience appearance concerns, especially on social media. The study found that fostering connections and acceptance can empower them to embrace their cleft condition.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Plastic Surgery
- Social Media Studies
Background:
- Young people (YP) with cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) often report significant concerns regarding their physical appearance.
- Social media image-sharing amplifies appearance-related anxieties for YP with CL/P.
- Understanding YP's lived experiences with their appearance in the digital age is crucial for targeted support.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore and understand the concerns, views, and experiences of YP with CL/P regarding their photographs and self-image.
- To investigate the impact of social media on the body image perception of YP with CL/P.
- To identify factors that contribute to empowerment and acceptance among YP with CL/P.
Main Methods:
- An exploratory qualitative study utilizing photo-elicitation during virtual semi-structured interviews.
- Participants (n=13, aged 16-20) provided photographs they liked and disliked to facilitate discussion.
- Interviews were transcribed and analyzed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis.
Main Results:
- Four key themes emerged: 'symmetry equals beauty,' 'controlling and curating the image presented to others,' 'acceptance with maturity,' and 'connections can promote empowerment.'
- YP expressed concerns about facial symmetry and actively managed their online self-presentation.
- Maturity and social connections were identified as pathways to greater self-acceptance and empowerment.
Conclusions:
- YP with CL/P face unique challenges related to appearance and self-image, particularly concerning social media.
- Empowerment can be fostered through social connections and acceptance of their cleft condition.
- Cleft care services should incorporate psychosocial support, peer mentoring, and appearance-focused interventions to enhance confidence and resilience.
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