SOCIODEMOGRAPHIC CORRELATES, CLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS AND PSYCHOSOCIAL QUALITY OF LIFE IN PEOPLE WITH ALOPECIA

Abstract

A cross-sectional correlational research design was conducted to examine the role of sociodemographic characteristics, clinical factors, and psychosocial variables in predicting quality of life among individuals with alopecia. The study specifically explored the influence of perceived stigmatization, stigma-related behaviours, social appearance anxiety, and generalized anxiety on hair-related quality of life. It was hypothesized that perceived stigmatization and social appearance anxiety would be significantly associated with quality of life among patients with alopecia, and that anxiety would moderate this relationship. Furthermore, sociodemographic and clinical characteristics were expected to show significant associations with psychosocial factors and quality of life. A sample of 134 participants (N = 134), determined through G*Power analysis, was recruited using a convenience sampling technique.

Data were collected from dermatology departments of various hospitals in Lahore and Jhelum, private dermatology clinics, social support groups, and online platforms.

Participants completed a demographic and clinical information sheet, the Hairdex Questionnaire (Fischer et al., 2001), the Social Appearance Anxiety Scale (Hart et al., 2005), the Perceived Stigmatization Questionnaire (Lawrence et al., 2001), and the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7).

The findings revealed significant positive correlations among perceived stigmatization, social appearance anxiety, generalized anxiety, and poorer quality of life. Multiple regression analysis demonstrated that perceived stigmatization (β = 2.491), social appearance anxiety (β = .130), and generalized anxiety (β = .151) significantly predicted quality of life, accounting for 18.6% of the variance (R² = .186, F = 4.760, p < .001). In addition, moderation analysis indicated that generalized anxiety significantly moderated the relationship between perceived stigmatization and quality of life. These findings highlight the substantial contribution of psychosocial factors to the quality of life of individuals with alopecia and underscore the importance of incorporating psychological interventions into dermatological care.