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Psychosocial correlates of eczema in a non-treatment-seeking population

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Abstract

Data from the Vietnam Experience Study were used to examine psychosocial correlates of eczema. Based upon the results of dermatologic examinations, three groups of male veterans were identified: (a) subjects with eczema (n = 80), (b) subjects with tinea (n = 282), and (c) subjects with no medical diagnosis (n = 176). These three groups were compared on measures of anxiety, depression, hostility, and social support. The Diagnostic Interview Schedule (Version III-A) was used to determine diagnoses of anxiety and depression and level of social support. MMPI Scales 2 and 7, the Wiggins content scale of Depression, and the Cook-Medley Hostility Scale were used to assess anxiety, depression, and hostility. Eczema subjects did not differ from tinea or no-disease control groups on dependent measures. These results are contrasted with previous studies of treatment-seeking patients, which showed greater prevalence of anxiety and depression among individuals with eczema. Directions for future research are suggested.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Pacific Graduate School of Psychology, Palo Alto, California

    Christine Zalewski & James Livingston

  2. VA Medical Center and University of California, San Francisco, California

    Timothy P. Carmody

  3. Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Psychology Service (116B), 4150 Clement Street, 94121, San Francisco, California

    Brenda Keller

Authors
  1. Brenda Keller
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  2. Christine Zalewski
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  3. Timothy P. Carmody
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  4. James Livingston
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This paper is taken from the first author's dissertation.

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Keller, B., Zalewski, C., Carmody, T.P. et al. Psychosocial correlates of eczema in a non-treatment-seeking population. J Clin Psychol Med Settings 3, 201–210 (1996). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01993906

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