Being Normal yet Different: A Qualitative Study on the Dualistic Experience of Living With Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to describe the experiences of young adults living with cleft lip and palate (CLP) and to explore potential gender differences. DESIGN: A descriptive qualitative study was designed involving semi-structured interviews. The interviews were analyzed using qualitative content analysis, as described by Graneheim and Lundman. PARTICIPANTS: A total of 9 women and 8 men, aged 22 to 26 years with UCLP. RESULTS: The main theme identified was: the duality of living with a cleft—being normal yet different, and 2 subcategories: “My cleft and me” and “My cleft and the World.” The participants described themselves as normal yet different, both in relation to themselves and in relation to others. They also stated that gender norms regarding appearance affected their lives and how they saw the cleft. CONCLUSION: This study adds to the growing body of qualitative research on CLP. It highlights the dualistic experiences of feeling normal and different at the same time. The interviews indicated that this dualism was based on context and gender, showing the psychological complexity of an individual. The clinical implications of this study emphasizes the need of a person-centered care approach in the cleft care setting where the clinicians are aware of the potential dualistic experience that also may differ over time that individuals with cleft can experience. This can also help clinicians better understand and help patients reduce distress and strengthen positive coping mechanisms.