Gynecomastia and adolescence: Psychological effects of social appearance anxiety and peer bullying

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate the frequency of peer bullying in adolescents diagnosed with gynecomastia and its effect on depression and anxiety levels. In addition, the study aimed to compare the social appearance anxiety and self-esteem levels of these adolescents with a control group.

Design and methods

53 adolescents (11-18 years) with gynecomastia and a control group of 53 healthy adolescents without chronic medical or psychiatric disorders were assessed using peer victimization, social anxiety, self-esteem, and depression/anxiety scales following ethical approval.

Results

The gynecomastia group had significantly higher DSM-5 Anxiety (p < 0.001), DSM-5 Depression (p < 0.001), and SAAS (p < 0.001) scores compared to the control group. Although the gynecomastia group trended toward higher peer victimization scores (p = 0.059), they experienced significantly more teasing (p = 0.005) and personal property attacks (p = 0.002). No significant difference was found in self-esteem between the two groups (p = 0.288). Multiple regression analysis revealed that depression and anxiety predicted social appearance anxiety, explaining 23.3 % of the variance (p < 0.001, F(4.373)).

Conclusions

Adolescents with gynecomastia had higher levels of anxiety, depression, and social appearance anxiety. They are more likely to be subject to teasing and attacks on property, highlighting the need for early psychological support and interventions in this population.

Practice implications

Multidisciplinary support and early psychosocial interventions are crucial for adolescents with gynecomastia to address bullying, anxiety, and depression.