A retrospective evaluation of psychosocial impact of long-term growth hormone therapy

Abstract

Fifty-eight growth hormone (hGH) deficient adults who had received long-term hGH therapy and their families were contacted to assess their past and current status regarding peer relationships, educational and vocational achievements, and self-concepts. Both heterosexual and same-sex peer relationships were reported as troublesome; most reported problems with having been treated as younger than their chronologic ages. The majority reported average or above average academic performance; there were no significant differences between academic achievements of the expatients and their siblings; the greatest portion of the sample were employed at least part-time and were satisfied with their employment status. On self-concept measures, the sample rated themselves higher in self-satisfaction, personal work, and sociality, but lower on physical self and self-criticism than norms; most of the parents reported no significant differences between the patients' adjustment and that of their siblings. In addition, the recommendations from the group to others considering hGH treatment and to medical personnel working with such families are noted; implications for hGH intervention are discussed.