LITERATURE STUDY 

2.1 INTRODUCTION 

The face is an important part of communication with others. It is a crucial source of non-verbal information, which makes a connection between two people possible. Acne affects the quality of this connection and therefore often leads to impaired social functioning, anxiety, depression, lowered-self concept, as well as perceived social rejection (Girman, Hartmaier, Thiboutot, Johnson, Barber, DeMuro-Mercon & Waldstreicher 1996:481).

The fact that sufferers perceive themselves to be rejected by others often leads to social withdrawal. Acne therefore isolates its victims and effectively cuts them off from any kind of social support. Many misconceptions about the condition exist, which makes sufferers feel even more misunderstood and renders the attempts at support of parents or teachers useless. 

This literature study will therefore focus on certain key issues such as the types, causes and treatment of acne, as well as the psychological, emotional and social impact of acne. Attention will also be given to the typical myths related to acne and how the sufferers perceive the support they get from parents and teachers.