Psychological effects of idiopathic adolescent scoliosis

This article reviews the literature concerning psychological characteristics of adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis. Although much has been written on the topic, it is largely based on clinical judgment rather than empirical data. In spite of methodological flaws, the few empirical studies available raise questions regarding the following issues: maladjustment occurs in a significant number of adolescents with scoliosis; there are sex and age differences in response to scoliosis diagnosis and treatment; and noncompliance is a major factor in treatment. Implications for further research are discussed.