An Evaluation of the PERMA Model as a Framework for Reducing Psychiatric Comorbidity in Individuals With Alopecia Areata

Abstract

Abstract. Background: Alopecia areata (AA) is among the most common immunological conditions. Although AA is considered to be a medically benign condition, those living with AA often report comorbid psychiatric conditions, high levels of functional impairment, and diminished quality of life. These consequences are largely due to the unique psychological turmoil associated with the condition. Unfortunately, little research has considered how to improve quality of life outcomes for this group. Aims: The purpose of this study was to evaluate how the PERMA framework of well-being is associated with the individual subjective experience of AA. A greater understanding of how PERMA applies to this group holds promise for assisting clinicians with devising psychosocial coping strategies for this population. Method: 274 individuals were recruited for participation. Hierarchical regression analyses were used to evaluate associations between the PERMA variables and AA-related (a) subjective symptoms (e.g., self-consciousness, sadness) and (b) relationship impact (e.g., perceived attractiveness). Each analysis controlled for demographic and condition-specific variables. Results: Demographic and PERMA variables were found to be significantly associated with positive experiences of each quality of life outcome. Limitations: The male to female ratio of participants was biased toward females. Furthermore, the nature of cross-sectional survey research has inherent limitations. Conclusion: The findings provide support for a relationship between PERMA variables and quality of life outcomes among people with AA. Clinical implications and future research directions are discussed.

Peer-Recommended Coping Strategies for Individuals Living With Alopecia Areata

“…Social integration and support are well-documented as valuable coping strategies for individuals experiencing almost any type of health challenge (Tay et al, 2013). This held true in the present study and is consistent with previous findings on the AA experience (e.g., Barkauskaite & Serapinas, 2020; Huck et al., 2021). Unsurprisingly, this was the largest subcategory in the present study.…”

“…Matzer et al (2011) found evidence that people with AA are more prone to maladaptive coping strategies than the general population. Most recently, Huck et al (2021) applied the PERMA framework (Seligman, 2011) to evaluate associations between the PERMA elements (i.e., positive emotions, engagement, relationships, meaning, and achievement) and AA-related QOL, finding that the model held promise for understanding and supporting individuals.…”

Evaluating Optimism, Hope, Resilience, Coping Flexibility, Secure Attachment, and PERMA as a Well-Being Model for College Life Adjustment of Student Veterans: A Hierarchical Regression Analysis

“…Health-related quality of life was measured using the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS ® ) global mental and physical health items, which were categorized by Hays et al (2009). The PROMIS global mental health and physical health scales consist of four items (e.g., “In general, would you say your quality of life is .…”

“…PERMA was built upon Authentic Happiness Theory (AHT; Seligman, 2002) to recognize the multidimensionality of well-being. PERMA has been examined in the field of rehabilitation (e.g., Huck et al, 2022;Tansey et al, 2018;Umucu, 2021). Seligman (2011aSeligman ( , 2011b stated that the purpose of well-being theory is to increase flourishing by increasing positive emotion, engagement, relationships, meaning, and accomplishment (i.e., PERMA).…”

Service-Connected Disability and Happiness in Student Veterans: A Parallel Mediation Study of PERMA

“…Emphasizing positive psychological traits to promote happiness in individuals with disabilities can further benefit rehabilitation research, clinical practice, and consumer experiences (Chou et al, 2013; Dunn & Dougherty, 2005). Therefore, rehabilitation researchers and practitioners have been advocating for a paradigm shift from examining deficits in disability to focusing on positive psychosocial factors, including happiness (Chou et al, 2013; Dunn & Dougherty, 2005; Dunn et al, 2009; Fortuna et al, 2020; Huck et al, 2022; Grenawalt et al, 2022; Lee, 2022; Lee, Rumrill, et al, 2022; Lee, Rumril, Tansey, 2022; Moser et al, 2020; Phillips et al, 2022; Sánchez et al, 2019; Umucu, Lee, Berwick, et al, 2022; Umucu, Reyes, Carrola, et al, 2021; Umucu, Tansey, et al, 2021; Umucu, Wu, et al, 2020).…”