Scratching the Surface: An Autoethnography to Begin to Understand and Address Illness Experience in Lice Infestation

Though pediculosis, more commonly known as lice, is extremely common and has nothing to do with hygiene, misconceptions persist. Lice, constructed a highly contagious illness, of nuisance, most contagion resulting from head-to-head contact, 3% environmental causes; still, the condition tends be associated negative behavior like uncleanliness neglect. There very little study it in U.S. save for some “no nit policy” studies almost none on psychological or communicative impact those affected. Through analysis pediculosis my children, I detail an autoethnography lice illness experience. Analysis suggests implications condition’s relationship stigma, shame, misconceptions, victim blaming, secrecy, well issues related seeking social support, finding contradictory health information, special services costs, giving over experts, particularly regarding framing. Stories thoughtfully examined shared may aid mitigating harmful frames provide directions helpful research. An examination experience start exploring this context communication perspective.