The Significance of Hair in Case of Its Loss: A Sociological Study of Two Groups Affected by Hair Loss
June 2013
in “
Digital Repository (National Repository of Grey Literature)
”
TLDR Hair loss negatively affects self-esteem and social interactions, but people use coping strategies like wigs or shaving to manage it.
This bachelor's thesis explored the sociological impact of hair loss on individuals, focusing on two groups: women undergoing chemotherapy and men experiencing androgenetic alopecia. The study highlighted that hair is a significant part of self-identity and cultural expression, with its loss often leading to negative or stigmatizing effects on self-esteem and social interactions. Through qualitative research, it was found that both groups attributed different meanings to hair and its loss but generally viewed the experience negatively. They adopted various coping strategies, such as wearing wigs or shaving remaining hair, to manage the impact of hair loss.