A Psychosocial Study of Icelandic Individuals with Cleft Lip or Cleft Lip and Palate

Abstract

Questionnaires were sent to 63 Icelandic individuals with cleft lip and cleft lip and palate who had undergone surgical repair of those defects. The questions focused on the following areas: (1) social characteristics, (2) clinical characteristics, (3) attitudes toward consequences of clefts, and (4) attitudes toward appearance and treatment. The CL and CLP groups were compared, as were females and males. A comparison group was used with respect to two social factors. The data indicated relatively good psychosocial adjustment. However, fewer individuals were married or living together in the cleft group than in the comparison group. The subjects did not perceive that cleft lip or palate had influenced their lives to a great extent, yet females seemed to be more self-conscious than males in respect to how others viewed their appearance. Overall, the subjects were satisfied with the treatment and the members of the treatment team. However, their expectations exceeded the actual outcome of surgery. Suggestions are offered for future research.