Experience of Alopecia in Adults: A Grounded Theory Approach
August 2018
in “
Journal of Korean Academy of Fundamentals of Nursing
”
TLDR Supporting people with alopecia through psychological help and accurate information is crucial for managing stress and coping.
The study investigated the experiences of 18 adults with alopecia, revealing a process of embarrassment, seeking solutions, and eventual acceptance, with the core theme of "inescapable fetters" indicating the persistent nature of alopecia. Stress, biological factors, and poor lifestyle were identified as causes, while societal perceptions and personal relationships influenced the experience. Participants tried medical treatments and concealment strategies but faced challenges like time and economic costs. The study concluded that supporting individuals in expressing their needs and maintaining daily life was crucial, emphasizing the importance of psychological support and accurate information to manage stress and develop coping strategies.