Factors Related to the Psychosocial Functioning of Youth With Neonatal Brachial Plexus Injuries

Abstract

Clinicians who work with children with NBPI should consider peer support and coping strategies when promoting the psychosocial functioning of these youth.

Assessment of Self‐Determination in Adolescents with Neonatal Brachial Plexus Palsy

“…Coping strategies, such as social support or the recognition from peers or parents, could mediate the psychosocial impact of their physical impairment [29]. In a similar study that investigated self-concept in youth with NBPP, the authors report that a greater level of social support is associated with better self-concept and fewer social difficulties [19]. It is possible that the positive coping mechanism and social support could reinforce positive psychosocial functioning and actually increase their SDet.…”

“…Their investigation suggested that essential components of SDet, such as autonomy, self‐regulation, self‐realization, and psychological empowerment significantly impact quality of life. A more recently published collaborative study looked at the relationship of injury severity, social support, coping strategies, and self‐concept in youth with NBPP [19]. The investigators asked whether a relationship existed between severity of injury, social difficulties, and self‐concept, and they concluded youth with NBPP were functioning well in those areas.…”

“…In addition to teachers/educators, caregivers, and providers should be aware of the psychosocial context of adolescents with NBPP and that by encouraging personal development and fulfillment SDet can improve, despite physical/functional differences. Studies show that children with persistent conditions develop coping strategies or "survivor sense" that could ultimately increase their SDet [19,[28][29][30]. During daily activities, children with NBPP might encounter physical challenges, and these challenges could cause frustration, stress, or even social difficulties [19].…”

Health‐Related Quality of Life Components in Children With Neonatal Brachial Plexus Palsy: A Qualitative Study

“…Recreation, peer relationships, and stigma were reported the most frequently for all 3 group types. Because physical impairment or aesthetic differences compared with their healthy peers, children with NBPP might experience social difficulties when participating in sports or school activities [11]. Stigma is a very common social health theme among children with chronic illness.…”

“…The uncertainty of treatment outcomes and bilateral discrepancies in physical appearance might contribute to associated psychosocial difficulties in children with NBPP. For example, appearance discrepancies such as muscle atrophy or arm length differences could limit participation in sports/school activities and might isolate children with NBPP from their peers in social settings [10‐12].…”