On an island by myself: women of color with facial distinctions.

Twenty-five women of color with early or late-onset facial distinctions between the ages of 18 and 44 were interviewed as part of a larger study investigating the psychosocial sequelae of facial distinction. Women were asked to report their thoughts about the ways other people perceived them, about their self-perceptions, and about difficult aspects of having a facial distinction. Findings indicate that facial distinction is a salient, pervasive, and overwhelming physical attribute. Society exerts a negative influence on all people with distinctions. This is accomplished by strictly defining what is an acceptable physical appearance and what is not and excluding those who do not conform to the standard. The findings point towards new areas for research including cross-cultural, cross-gender, and cross-distinction studies. Recommendations for clinical intervention are offered.