The acceptability of early psychological interventions for adults with appearance concerns after burns

Shepherd, Laura, Sirois, Fuschia, Harcourt, Diana, Norman, Paul and Thompson, Andrew R. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6788-7222 2024. The acceptability of early psychological interventions for adults with appearance concerns after burns. Burns 50 (8) , pp. 2103-2113. 10.1016/j.burns.2024.07.038

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Abstract

Introduction Appearance concerns are common following burns. However, there is a lack of research investigating early psychological interventions for appearance concerns. This qualitative study explored the acceptability of early psychological interventions for appearance concerns after burns. Methods Fifteen adults (nine female; 18–56 years) with appearance concerns were interviewed within three months post-burn to explore their views about the acceptability of early psychological interventions for appearance concerns. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. Template analysis informed data collection and analysis. Results Three themes represented participants’ views about the acceptability of early psychological interventions for appearance concerns: (1) Early psychological interventions are absent; (2) Early psychological interventions are acceptable within a therapeutic relationship (to manage upsetting emotions and thoughts about appearance, with therapists who are experienced in supporting burns patients); and (3) Ambivalence and obstacles (e.g., difficulties accepting help, minimising injuries or concerns, and time restrictions following hospital discharge). Conclusion Early psychological interventions for appearance concerns following burns are likely to be acceptable for some patients. However, ambivalence and potential barriers remain to be addressed. Embedding early psychological interventions for appearance concerns into routine burn care could increase acceptability through normalisation.

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Publication
Status:	Published
Schools:	Psychology
Publisher:	Elsevier
ISSN:	0305-4179
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	5 August 2024
Date of Acceptance:	28 July 2024
Last Modified:	05 Nov 2024 15:00
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/170983

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