Glossary / Lexicon

Deutsch: Gigantismus / Español: Gigantismo / Português: Gigantismo / Français: Géantisme / Italiano: Gigantismo

Gigantism in the psychology context refers to the psychological and social implications experienced by individuals who have unusually tall stature due to medical or genetic conditions, primarily caused by an excess of growth hormone. While gigantism specifically relates to increased growth hormone levels before the closure of growth plates in childhood, leading to abnormal height, the psychological context considers the impact of being significantly taller than average on an individual's mental health, social interactions, and self-perception.

Description

Individuals with gigantism may face unique psychological challenges. These can include feeling conspicuous or different from peers, experiencing bullying or social isolation, and dealing with practical challenges related to their size, such as finding appropriate clothing or navigating public spaces. The psychological context of gigantism thus explores how these experiences affect self-esteem, body image, social relationships, and overall mental health.

Application Areas

Psychological support and intervention for individuals with gigantism can be critical in several areas:

• Clinical Psychology: Providing therapeutic support to address issues related to self-esteem, anxiety, depression, or social adjustment difficulties.
• Health Psychology: Helping individuals cope with the medical aspects of gigantism and the psychological impact of these medical interventions.
• Developmental Psychology: Understanding how gigantism affects developmental milestones, especially during childhood and adolescence, when peer relationships and fitting in are particularly important.

Well-Known Examples

André the Giant, a professional wrestler and actor, is a well-known figure who had gigantism. His life story has been explored in various media, highlighting not only his extraordinary physical presence but also the personal and psychological challenges he faced due to his condition.

Treatment and Risks

Psychological treatment for individuals with gigantism may focus on coping strategies for dealing with social stigma and practical challenges, enhancing social skills, and building a positive self-image. Risks associated with untreated psychological issues in gigantism include social isolation, depression, and anxiety disorders. Multidisciplinary care teams often address the complex needs of these individuals, including medical treatment for their physical condition and psychological support.

Similar Terms or Synonyms

• Excessive growth hormone condition
• Abnormal tall stature

Weblinks

• medizin-und-kosmetik.de: 'Gigantismus' im Lexikon von medizin-und-kosmetik.de (German)

Articles with 'Gigantism' in the title

• Pituitary Gigantism: Pituitary Gigantism refers to the excessive growth and height due to chronic overactivity of the pituitary gland at the base of the brain. Growth hormone is specifically made by the anterior pituitary gland

Summary

In the psychology context, gigantism encompasses the mental health, social, and emotional challenges faced by individuals who are exceptionally tall due to underlying medical conditions. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach that includes both medical management of the condition and psychological support to promote mental well-being and social integration.

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