Scratching the Surface: A Qualitative Study of Parents’ Experience of Eczema and Support for Psychological Wellbeing

Aims: Eczema is the most prevalent skin condition, but there is still a gap in the research regarding the impact that it has on parents, particularly regarding psychological wellbeing and the effects on parenting. The existing literature suggests that chronic health conditions impact how parents respond to their child’s needs, yet there is little research investigating the impacts of eczema on this. With much of the research around being focussed on physical health, there is a need for an understanding of the psychological implications of eczema. This research aims to learn more about parent’s experiences of eczema, as well as any psychological wellbeing support that they may have been offered in the context of eczema.

Method: Parents who had eczema themselves and/or had a child with eczema were interviewed about their experiences using a semi-structured interview schedule. Thematic analysis was then conducted to identify themes.

Results: Three themes were identified, including: 1) Mental health and wellbeing; 2) Relational impact, and 3) Other people’s perceptions of eczema. Within these themes, ten subthemes were identified which indicated that eczema had impacted parental wellbeing and ways of parenting, as well as a need for, and uncertainty about, psychological support they could access.

Conclusion: An impact on parent’s mental health and wellbeing was identified, however there is a clear gap in awareness of psychological support that may be available, with physical symptoms prioritised by professionals. There were also depictions of the relational impact of eczema. It was clear that eczema was often misunderstood which led to feelings of isolation and judgement. Future research should continue to explore how best to support families impacted by eczema.