Stigma Resulting from Head Lice Infestation: A Concept Analysis and Implications for Public Health
Document Type
Article
Abstract
AIM: The aim of this concept analysis was to examine stigma in the context of head lice, illuminating its components and providing insights for the development of appropriate nursing interventions.
BACKGROUND: Stigma associated with the phenomenon of head lice management is pervasive, promulgating fear and influencing policy and treatment practices. Few studies have examined stigma in this context.
METHOD: The method followed was the Rodgers's evolutionary method.
DATA SOURCES: Health, education, and social sciences databases were searched and yielded 20 articles spanning 1996-2018 used to create a relevant literature review.
RESULTS: Stigma arising from head lice infestation is preceded by an actual or perceived case of head lice, negative perceptions of lice, negative perception of groups or persons with head lice, or being associated with a group or person of lesser status believed to be a carrier of head lice. Defining attributes include marks of infestation, negative and unfair beliefs, and shame. Consequences of stigma are economic costs, social costs, mistreatment, and overtreatment with pediculicides.
CONCLUSION: The concept of stigma in the context of head lice management is multifaceted. Further research is required to understand the magnitude of stigma as well as other factors associated with optimal treatment of children with head lice.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Publication Info
Published in Nursing Forum An Independent Voice for Nursing, Volume 55, Issue 2, 2020, pages 75-300.
APA Citation
Hurst, S. K., Dotson, J. A. W., Butterfield, P., Corbett, C. F., & Oneal, G. (2020). Stigma resulting from head lice infestation: A concept analysis and implications for public health. Nursing Forum, 55(2), 252–258. https://doi.org/10.1111/nuf.12423
Rights
© 2020 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.