Exploring attitudinal and psychophysiological responses towards visible difference : the role of shame, disgust, self-esteem and appearance schema.

Skin conditions can result in an acquired visible difference. It Is widely acknowledged that whilst the majority of people with a visible difference cope well, some experience a variety of psychosocial problems. Many of these difficulties are linked to the intrusive reactions people receive from members of the general public, and the Individuals' own perception of those reactions. Therefore, exploring reactions towards visible difference and the psychological variables associated with them is crucial to the development of interventions. These studies are the first to explore responses to visible differences using the Implicit Attitude Test (IAT).