A case study of young patients affected by Turner syndrome: competency and psychopathology

Aim This study’s purpose was to evaluate psychological and affective- relational characteristics in a group of pre adolescents and adolescents affected by Turner syndrome, with the aim to focus on the importance of a multidisciplinary intervention. Materials and methods A group of 47 girls affected by Turner syndrome and a group of 47 healthy girls were enrolled. The age of the subjects was between 10 and 19 years. In order to evaluate emotional and social aspects in Turner girls compared to healthy girls, a semistructured interview was conducted to collect personal data, family, psycho-social, extra-school habits and therapeutic intervention. Furthermore, in order to evaluate psychopathological dimensions, T. Achenbach’s Youth Self Report was administered to patients and controls. Results This study highlighted some critical aspects regarding Turner girls, like dissatisfaction with their appearance, the importance of the relationship with parents which influences both the acceptance of the illness and several other psycho-social aspects, difficulties with their peer groups, and the presence of psychopathological symptoms (internalizing problems rather than externalizing ones). Conclusions Patients undergoing a psychiatric/psychological consultation received benefits, particularly regarding social integration, self-fulfilment, and satisfaction with one’s own appearance. A multidisciplinary intervention is strongly suggested with patients affected by Turner syndrome, particularly in adolescent age.