PSYCHOSOCIAL EFFECTS OF 2 YEARS OF HUMAN GROWTH-HORMONE TREATMENT IN TURNER SYNDROME

Thirty-eight girls with Turner syndrome were treated for 2 years with human growth hormone. Both parents and patients carried out assessments of the effects of treatment on various aspects of psychosocial functioning. The children used the Piers-Harris Self-Concept Scale and the Social Anxiety Scale for children, while parents were interviewed and filled in the Child Behavior Checklist. Both parents and children used the Therapy Evaluation Scale and the Silhouette Apperception Technique. Teachers completed the Teacher Rating Form. Results showed no significant changes with treatment in self-concept or social anxiety, or in behavioural problems, though immature behaviour was less common after the treatment period. Therapy was evaluated positively, and improvements were apparent in both social and emotional functioning; about a quarter of the patients became more independent, happier and more involved in social interactions. Unrealistic perceptions of present height and expectations of future height were expressed by a large proportion of both children and parents.