A Psychological Approach to Disfigurement: the Establishment and Evaluation of a Disfigurement Support Unit

This book begins by presenting an overview of research into the social implications, emotional distress and coping related to disfigurement. The establishment and evaluation of a prototype disfigurement support unit is detailed in three studies, all conducted in the context of 'real world' clinical practice. A survey of burn injured individuals investigates to what extent there is a need for a psychological service. This is followed by an examination of the clinical concerns presented by individual adults referred to the unit. A cognitive behavioural intervention is then described and evaluated, highlighting significant improvement in psychological functioning. Quantitative as well as qualitative methods are employed and illustrations with quotes from users bring the subject matter to life. Issues related to uptake of psychological help, the active ingredient in therapy and areas in need of future research are discussed.