Lived Experiences of Individuals with Alopecia Areata in Social Relationships: A Qualitative Study
Keywords:
Alopecia areata, social relationships, psychosocial dimensions, hair loss, qualitative researchAbstract
This study was conducted to explore and clarify the lived experiences of individuals with alopecia areata in the context of their social relationships. This research adopted a phenomenological approach. Participants were selected through purposive sampling from individuals diagnosed with alopecia areata who were either referred to a specialized dermatology hospital or were members of the Iranian Alopecia Areata Association. The number of participants was determined based on the principle of data saturation. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 participants to gather rich and detailed data. Data were analyzed using the content analysis method proposed by Strauss and Corbin (Strauss & Corbin, 1998), which allows for the systematic identification of patterns and themes within qualitative data. The analysis of data concerning the experiences of individuals with alopecia areata in their social relationships led to the emergence of five core themes, each containing multiple subthemes. These included the psychological and social pressures experienced by individuals, the various forms of social support they received, the role of social comparison in shaping their perceptions, the coping skills they employed to manage psychosocial stressors, and the outcomes of their effective social interactions. These themes reflect the complex interplay of internal and external factors that influence how individuals navigate their social worlds while living with alopecia areata. The findings of this study indicate that individuals with alopecia areata encounter a range of psychosocial difficulties as they attempt to maintain their social engagement. Nevertheless, these individuals demonstrate resilience through the utilization of social support, the application of effective interpersonal skills, and a reliance on their personal strengths in communicating and connecting with others. As a result, negative experiences may be restructured into positive ones, fostering growth, increased success, and ultimately leading to experiential well-being and an improved social position. Enhancing awareness among patients and society at large regarding the importance of supporting individuals with alopecia areata is a critical necessity.
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