Psychological Variables in Children and Adolescents with Cleft Lip and/or Palate

Abstract

Objective: This review analyzes the psychological variables most frequently studied over the last 10 years in children and adolescents with cleft lip/palate (CL/P). Such variables are assumed to be the keys to these patients' psychosocial adjustment. Study design: Articles published from January 2007 to February 2017 were retrieved from PubMed to identify the psychological variables most commonly studied in children and adolescents with CL/P, irrespective of gender or type of cleft. The search terms were “cleft palate” and “psychology”, with the operator AND. Results: Of the 324 articles retrieved, 26 met the criteria for inclusion in the review. The psychological variables most extensively studied over the years were children's social functioning, quality of life and ability to cope. Conclusion: While CL/P patients' quality of life was unanimously agreed to be affected, no consensus was found in the literature on social functioning or coping. In addition to the cleft, patient adjustment was reported to be governed by individual variables and mediators. The range of ages most frequently studied was 7 to 16.

Psychosocial and Sexual Implications of Repaired Cleft Lip in an Adult Male

“…In addition, the psychosexual impact in terms of subjective embarrassment and shame for their condition can diminish arousal, particularly in the presence of a sexual partner. Adolescents who have a CLP are at a higher risk for psychosocial problems, which include peer relationships, self-concept, and appearance [6][7][8][9]. Particularly in girls, self-concept may be affected negatively with the presence of CLP.…”

Updated Evidence in Management of Cleft Lip and Palate: Simple Review Article

“…Newborns with cleft palates frequently require specific bottles and teats to be given to feed successfully. For newborns with cleft lip and cleft palate, there are several bottles available, including the SpecialNeeds feeder, the Pigeon cleft palate teat and gentle squeeze bottle flask, and the Chu Chu teat with soft squeeze bottle flask [14].…”

“…However, CLP patient management guidelines differ from one hospital to the next. Between 1996 and 2000, 194 different surgical methods for unilateral cleft alone were used, according to the Eurocleft study [14].…”

Academic outcomes of children with orofacial clefts: A review of the literature and recommendations for future research

“…Another area in need of further work is understanding whether children's psychosocial well‐being explains any of the observed differences in academic outcomes. Some studies report that children with orofacial clefts are at higher risk for inattention, hyperactivity, anxiety, and depression (Broder et al, 2014; Guillén et al, 2020; Kowalewicz et al, 2016; Lorot‐Marchand et al, 2015; Nicholls et al, 2019; Suldo et al, 2014; Tyler et al, 2013; Wehby, Tyler, et al, 2012). A related factor and concern is exposure to bullying at school which obstructs learning and harms psychosocial well‐being both in the short and long run (Glener…”

“…Another area in need of further work is understanding whether anxiety, and depression (Broder et al, 2014;Guillén et al, 2020;Kowalewicz et al, 2016;Lorot-Marchand et al, 2015;Nicholls et al, 2019;Suldo et al, 2014;Tyler et al, 2013;Wehby, Tyler, et al, 2012).…”