Hair, Identity, and Health Care: Youth Experiences in Hospitals - Parent of a child 10-17

STUDY BASICS

Does appearance effect healthcare interactions? This research study wants to learn from previously hospitalized youth and their caregivers about how appearance-based biases shape health care interactions and how youth receive care in the hospital setting. Participation involves completing a 120-minute interview. Compensation is provided.

STUDY PURPOSE

This research study wants to learn if and how youth, caregivers, and healthcare providers notice that a person’s appearance—such as their hair, clothing, or personal style—affects their experiences in the hospital. This includes how these aspects of self-expression might shape interactions during care, and how healthcare providers respond to them. Your voice can help us improve care for young people.

COULD THIS STUDY BE RIGHT FOR YOU?

Caregivers of youth ages 10-17 who were hospitalized in the past 2 years and/or your child.

WHAT PARTICIPANTS CAN EXPECT

The study takes about 120 minutes and includes a short survey and a one-on-one interview. Some participants may also be invited to join creative activities like reviewing images or helping design more inclusive care spaces.

If you are a parent or caregiver:

· You’ll fill out a short survey about your views and experiences related to youth appearance and self expression in medical settings. 

· You’ll talk with a member of the team about your thoughts on your child’s appearance, how you think it may have affected their hospital care, and how you felt healthcare workers responded.

For youth participants:

· Youth participants will be asked to share a favorite photo that shows their personal style—like their hair, outfit, or anything else that represents them. This photo will not be saved or distributed in any way.

· They will talk with a member of the team about how they think their appearance may have shaped their hospital experience, what happened and how it made them feel.

· In a separate activity, they will pretend to be a hospital patient in a role-play activity and respond to examples of what could happen during a visit.