The Psychosocial Adjustment of Pediatric Craniofacial Patients After Surgery

Abstract

The postsurgical psychological status of 25 craniofacial patients, 6 through 16 years of age, was studied using self, teacher, and parent report measures. In contrast to earlier reports of more positive adjustment following corrective surgery, the present study identified several concerns for craniofacial patients, including low self-esteem, impaired peer relationships, and greater dependency on significant adults. Problems were more clearly identified using pro-jective techniques rather than self-report measures. The findings suggest that many children having craniofacial surgery should have supportive psychother-apeutic services. Variables were explored relative to psychosocial functioning. Although few significant correlations were demonstrated, positive psychological adjustment was found to be related to greater physical attractiveness, lower parental stress, and younger age.