The Psychosocial Impact of Adolescent Food Allergy: A Review of The Literature

Abstract

Previous research has suggested adolescents and young people with food allergies (FA) have the highest risk of fatal reactions to food. As the prevalence of FA has been increasing there has been increased demand for psychosocial support of adolescents with food allergy, with anxiety around food and social interactions affecting the lives of adolescents and their families. This narrative review aims to explore the psychosocial impact of having a FA in adolescence, including the suggested impact, coping, risk-taking behaviour, and effect of peers and social support. The review concludes with considerations of the wider community which may also have an effect.

Keywords

• adolescence
• anaphylaxis
• food allergy
• peer relationships
• psychosocial impact