The Effect of Bullying Victimization on Social Appearance Anxiety, Sleep Disorders and Psychological Symptoms Among Adolescents with Idiopathic Short Stature

BackgroundChildren with short stature are more likely to have negative social experiences, such as being teased more, being less accepted by peers, and having fewer friends. We aimed to investigate psychosocial problems in adolescents with Idiopathic short stature (ISS) and the relationship between these problems and peer victimization. Methods: The study included 88 participants with newly diagnosed ISS, aged 11-18 years, and 88 age- and sex-matched controls. Participants were assessed with Peer Victimization Scale (PVS), Sleep disturbance scale for children (SDSC), Rosenberg self-esteem scale (RSES), Social Appearance Anxiety Scale (SAAS), DSM-5 Level-2 Depression Scale-Self-Report Scale (DDS-2) and DSM-5 Level-2 Anxiety Scale (DAS-2). Results: PVS, SDSC, SAAS, DDS-2 and DAS-2 scores were significantly higher and RSES scores were significantly lower in patients with ISS (p < .05). Regression analysis revealed that low self-esteem and exposure to high levels of teasing and more sleep initiation and maintenance disturbances were associated with social appearance anxiety in patients with ISS (p < .001, Adjusted R² = 22.0%, F = 5.086). Sleep initiation and maintenance problems (p < .001) and sleep-wake transition disorders (p = .002) were found to be higher in patients with ISS. In addition, threatening was found to predict more sleep disturbances in the ISS group (p < .001, F = 6,738). Conclusion: Routine examination of children with ISS in terms of psychosocial problems and intervention methods can contribute positively to the treatment process of children. Intervention methods should focus on preventing peer victimisation and developing coping skills in adolescents with ISS.