The social competence of children with albinism

Abstract

This study investigated the social competence of children with albinism, providing insights into their social practices and peer relationships in ways that had not been investigated previously. The findings agree with those of previous studies indicating a relationship between vision loss, social competence, patterns of social interaction, and the formation and maintenance of friendships. Where this study differs is in its focus on children with albinism, and the comparisons between students with oculocutaneous albinism: tyrosinase negative (OCA1); oculocutaneous albinism: tyrosinase positive (OCA2); and ocular albinism (OA). The examination of specific factors that have the potential to influence social competence, peer interaction and peer relationships adds to the understanding of important dynamics that impact on the social development of this group of children.