PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECTS OF LIVER-DISEASE AND TRANSPLANTATION

Psychological adjustment in children with liver disease was investigat ed. Three groups of children 6-15 years old participated: ten had unde rgone a liver transplant (Gp1), 15 had ongoing chronic liver disease ( Gp2) and 15 were healthy controls (Gp3). Children who had had a transp lant appeared well adjusted and thought of themselves as healthy rathe r than ill, although areas of vulnerability were present, for example increased anxiety. No differences emerged in terms of roping with comm on or illness-related problems or understanding of the causes of illne ss and use of medication. Gps 1 and 2 showed higher levels of understa nding of the functions of the liver but less understanding of illness prevention when compared to their healthy peers. Gp2 experienced less control over their health when compared to the other two groups. Gp1 r ated themselves as more ''healthy'' than Gp2 but less so than Gp3. Con clusion Children with chronic liver disease are able to communicate ho w they deal with the stresses of the condition Though well adjusted in many ways. those who have had a transplant still show areas of psycho logical vulnerability which need to be addressed in clinical practice.