Emotional aspects of arm or leg amputation in children

A clinical study of nine children between the ages of 4 and 15, who had undergone arm or leg amputation is presented. The emotional reactions of all those involved - the child, family, and the treatment team - are described. Amputation creates extreme stress in all participants in the procedure. Some similarities were found in the defensive mechanisms and stages experienced by the child, the family and the members of the treatment team.