Social issues among children with high or intermediate imperforate anus: a proxy perspective.

Problem: Children with imperforate anus (IA) may be psychosocially affected.

Methods: Parents of children with IA and parents in two comparison groups rated their children using a study-specific questionnaire and the Competence Scales in the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL). Teachers rated Academic and Adaptive Functioning Scales in the Teacher's Report Form (TRF).

Findings: School items were rated favorably by the fathers of children with IA, and mothers reported less expression of their children's will. Children with IA were socially competent according to CBCL, although they received lower ratings on the TRF.

Conclusions: Psychosocial issues seem to be challenging for children with IA, and this needs attention in care management.