A qualitative study of families of a child with a nut allergy
From Chronic Illness
Parents of nut-allergy sufferers face hostility and scepticism in trying to find safe environments for their children. Researchers in this study found that parents are routinely made to feel by friends and even family that their child’s nut allergy is a ‘frivolous and self indulgent fad invented and maintained by attention-seeking people.’ The research revealed how found that children suffering from potentially deadly nut allergies often struggle with negative attitudes and unhelpful food labelling. Families were interviewed about the techniques and strategies they use to cope in various situations. Nut allergy was a source of ongoing anxiety for families, who can find themselves socially isolated and excluded. The findings point to a need to raise awareness of the dangers associated with nut allergy and also calls for improvement in food production and labelling to help families and children maintain a safe environment and reduce stress and difficulties
