Using Drawings and a Child-centered Interview to Explore the Impact of Pediculosis on Elementary School Children in a Rural Town

The purpose of this study was to research children's emotional responses to head lice infestations and the impact on self and social functioning. This study revealed that children experienced shame and rejection with pediculosis outbreaks that resulted in diminished social functioning and reduction of self-esteem. They personalized infestations and harbored selfcriticism on the basis of words and actions of significant others. Negative self-perception can remain with a child for years and has the potential to retard healthy growth and social functioning. Adapted from the source document.