Trond Haaken Diseth

• Davidsen, Linda; Diseth, Trond Haaken; Jessen, Reidar Schei; Mediå, Line Merete; Nyquist, Cecilie Bjertness & Stenberg, Nina [Show all 9 contributors for this article] (2026). “It’s Like a Chain Reaction of Discomfort”: A Phenomenological Qualitative Study on the Intersection of Autism and Gender Incongruence in Adolescents. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. ISSN 0162-3257. doi: 10.1007/s10803-026-07486-y. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Purpose An overrepresentation of autism spectrum diagnoses (ASD) and autistic traits have been reported among people with gender incongruence. Several quantitative and qualitative studies have highlighted the intersection of autism and gender incongruence (GI). However, we have little knowledge on lived experiences of adolescents experiencing ASD and GI. The study aimed to shed light on lived experience of gender incongruence from the perspective of autistic adolescents. The analysis was guided by the following research question: How do adolescents with ASD and GI experience their bodies and gender in everyday life, and how do they make meaning of the intersection of autism and GI in everyday living? Methods This study is based on semi-structured interview guide alongside life-mode interviews of adolescents experiencing both ASD and GI. We adopted reflexive thematic analysis with phenomenology as the theoretical backdrop. Results The analysis concluded with three overarching meta-themes; “The emergence of the mismatch of gender identity and body in autistic adolescents”, “The hard work of everyday routines – working all day and all night”, and “Experiences of Bodily Estrangement - A Chain Reaction of Discomfort”. Conclusion The findings contribute to the existing literature by emphasising how sensory sensitivities and gender identity distress intensify each other and how the transition from child to adolescence, and the body, is perceived. Results indicate tailored clinical implications for adolescents experiencing ASD and GI. Clinicians should consider multidisciplinary collaboration, individualised and flexible interventions that address both sensory regulation and gender-related support to improve quality of care for adolescents with ASD and GI.

• Hameed, Rania Adel; Fosby, Marianne Valeberg; Hoel, Anders Telle; Diseth, Trond Haaken; Bjørnland, Kristin & Gjone, Inger Helene (2025). Mental Health, Psychosocial Functioning and Quality of Life in Adolescents With Anorectal Malformation. Journal of Pediatric Surgery. ISSN 0022-3468. 60(9), p. 1–7. doi: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2025.162422. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Aim of the study There is limited knowledge on mental health in adolescents with anorectal malformation (ARM). This study aimed to assess mental health, psychosocial functioning, and quality of life (QoL) in this population. Methods Adolescents treated at Oslo University hospital were invited to participate. Patients with intellectual disability or cloaca were excluded. Mental health was assessed by interview (Child Assessment Schedule; CAS) and by questionnaires obtained from parents (Child Behavior Checklist; CBCL) and adolescents (Youth Self-Report; YSR). Psychosocial functioning was evaluated using the Child Global Assessment Scale (cGAS) and adolescent QoL with Pediatric Quality of Life inventory (PedsQL). Medical records reviewed for somatic history. Ethical approval was obtained. Results Thirty-one of 41 (76 %) eligible adolescents, 17/31 (55 %) males, participated. Median age was 15 (12–18) years. Nine had perineal fistula, 16 rectovestibular/rektobulbar/rectoprostatic fistula, and 6 other ARM variants (web, atresia, unknown). Associated anomalies were recorded in 21/31 (72 %). Four had colostomy and 9 an appendicostomy. CAS interviews revealed that 11/31 (36 %) of participated adolescents met criteria for a mental health disorder mainly within the emotional (internalizing) categories (WHO report 2021; general population prevalence 14 %). Parents reported internalizing problems on CBCL in 5/31 (16 %), and 7/31 (23 %) adolescents reported internalizing problems on YSR. Based on interviewer-rated cGAS, 11/31 (26 %) scored in the clinical range. By PedsQL self-report 5/31 (16 %) reported reduced QoL. Conclusions One in three met criteria for a mental health disorder and one in six reported reduced QoL among adolescents with ARM. Emotional problems were most common. Level of evidence III.

• Larsen, Selma Mujezinovic; Ramstad, Kjersti; Hollung, Sandra Julsen; Andersen, Guro Lillemoen & Diseth, Trond Haaken (2025). Higher Self-Than Parent-Reported Health-Related Quality of Life in Adolescents With Cerebral Palsy; a Register Study. Acta Paediatrica. ISSN 0803-5253. 114(8), p. 1918–1925. doi: 10.1111/apa.70055. Full text in Research Archive
• Nyquist, Cecilie Bjertness; Torgersen, Leila; David, Linda W.; Diseth, Trond Haaken; Magnus, Per Minor & Biele, Guido [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2024). Population-adjusted numbers, demographics and mental health among children and adolescents referred to the Norwegian National Center for Gender Incongruence over two decades. European Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. ISSN 1018-8827. doi: 10.1007/s00787-024-02508-5. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Over the last decade, there has been a sharp increase in young people seeking medical treatment for gender dysphoria/gender incongruence (GD/GI). The aims of this study were to calculate yearly population-adjusted numbers of children and adolescents referred to the Norwegian National Center for Gender Incongruence (NCGI) at Oslo University Hospital (OUS) from 2000 to 2022; to describe the demographic characteristics and prevalence of psychiatric diagnoses, self-harm and suicide attempts among the referred from 2000 to 2020; and to investigate time trends. The study used data from the Gender Incongruence Registry for Children and Adolescents (GIRCA) in Norway. All persons under 18 years (n = 1258) referred to the NCGI between 2000 and 2020 were included: 68.4% assigned female gender at birth (AFAB) and 31.6% assigned male gender at birth (AMAB). We found a sharp increase in referrals to the NCGI favouring AFAB over AMAB. Nearly two in three (64.5%) had one or more registered psychiatric diagnoses. Self-harm was registered among 35.5%, and 12.7% had attempted suicide. Registered psychiatric diagnoses were significantly (p ≤ 0.001) more prevalent among AFAB (67.8%) than AMAB (57.4%). The number of registered diagnoses per person decreased significantly over time, with an average reduction of 0.02 diagnoses per person per year. Although there was a downward time trend in registered diagnoses per person, the total mental health burden among children and adolescents with GI emphasizes the need for a holistic approach.

• Nyquist, Cecilie Bjertness; Torgersen, Leila; David, Linda W.; Diseth, Trond Haaken; Gulbrandsen, Kjersti & Wæhre, Anne (2024). Treatment trajectories among children and adolescents referred to the Norwegian National Center for Gender Incongruence. Acta Paediatrica. ISSN 0803-5253. p. 1–9. doi: 10.1111/apa.17530. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Aim We aimed to describe treatment trajectories, detransition and mortality rate among children and adolescents referred to the Norwegian National Center for Gender Incongruence (NCGI). Methods The cohort included all 1258 persons under 18 years at referral to the NCGI from 2000 to 2020. Trajectories were registered until end of 2023. Results In total, 861/1258 (68.4%) were assigned female gender at birth (AFAB). Mean age at referral was 14.4 years. Puberty suppression with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRHa) was initiated among 135/1258 (10.7%), significantly more persons assigned male gender at birth (AMAB) than AFAB (p < 0.001). Gender-affirming hormonal treatment (GAHT) was initiated in 783/1258 (62.2%). The continuation rate from GnRHa to GAHT was 97%. Discharge rate from NCGI without gender-affirming medical treatment among those who attended at least one appointment, was 264/1198 (22.0%). Eighteen AFAB detransitioned after initiated GAHT, eleven due to a cessation of transgender identity. Mortality rate in the cohort until end of 2023 was 11/1258 (0.9%). Conclusion Different trajectories including medical pathways and assessments without gender-affirming treatment were observed. GAHT was initiated in 783/1258 (62.2%), including eighteen AFAB detransitioning after testosterone treatment. There was a high continuation rate from GnRHa to GAHT. Various trajectories highlights the need for long-term follow-up in care.

• Gulseth, Eirik; Urdal, Andreas Martin; Andersen, Marit Helen; Falk, Ragnhild Sørum; Aksnes, Gunnar & Emblem, Ragnhild [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2024). Mental health and health-related quality of life in adolescents surgically treated for hypospadias in childhood. Journal of Pediatric Urology. ISSN 1477-5131. doi: 10.1016/j.jpurol.2024.09.031. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background There is limited research and conflicting results on the mental health and health-related quality of life of individuals surgically treated for hypospadias in childhood. Furthermore, the significance of patient-reported outcomes (PRO) in hypospadias is growing. More research is necessary on these topics, particularly in adolescents. Objective We aimed to compare mental health, health-related quality of life, body satisfaction, self-esteem, penile appearance, and sexual function outcomes in 16-year-old adolescents who had surgery for hypospadias in childhood with a healthy comparison group. Study design The study involved 16-year-old adolescents who had surgery for hypospadias in one Norwegian hospital. An age-matched comparison group of healthy adolescents was previously recruited. The study assessed self-reported outcomes on mental health using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, health-related quality of life using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory, body satisfaction and self-esteem using the Self-Perception Profile for Adolescents, and genital perception and sexual function using the Pediatric Penile Perception Score and a non-validated structured interview. Results In total, 117 adolescents operated for hypospadias and 61 healthy adolescents were included. The outcomes for mental health and health-related quality of life were not statistically different between groups. However, 18 (16%) hypospadias patients were classified as cases/borderline on mental health outcomes, compared to 2 (3%) in the comparison group (p = 0.01). Patients classified as cases/borderline on mental health reported lower health-related quality of life, self-esteem, and more stressful life events. Self-reported penile appearance and sexual function were comparable between groups, however the proximal hypospadias group displayed lower satisfaction. Discussion Although the present study had generally positive outcomes, a significant finding was that a higher number of adolescents who had previously undergone hypospadias surgery during childhood were classified as cases or borderline cases with respect to mental health issues. Hypospadias surgery in childhood may pose challenges for some patients during adolescence, particularly in the proximal group. Regular monitoring by healthcare professionals is crucial in providing necessary support. A limitation is the small size of the subgroups. Conclusion Most patients report good mental health, quality of life, and self-esteem even though patients with hypospadias report more mental health issues than the comparison group. Proximal hypospadias were less satisfied with penile appearance and sexual function. However, due to the small sample size, conclusions about this group should be treated cautiously. Assessing self-reported outcomes in follow-ups is important to identify adolescents who had hypospadias surgery and are at risk for reduced mental health.

• Hameed, Rania Adel; Hoel, Anders Telle; Diseth, Trond Haaken; Bjørnland, Kristin & Gjone, Inger Helene (2024). Mental Health, Psychosocial Functioning, and Quality of Life in Adolescents With Hirschsprung Disease. Journal of Pediatric Surgery. ISSN 0022-3468. 59(6), p. 1037–1043. doi: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2024.01.024. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Studies of mental health in adolescents with Hirschsprung disease (HD) are scarce. This cross-sectional study investigates mental health, psychosocial functioning and quality of life in HD adolescents. Methods: Adolescents (12-18 years) treated at the Department of pediatric surgery at Oslo University Hospital were invited for participation. Mental health was assessed by interview; Child Assessment Schedule (CAS) and questionnaires; parental Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) and adolescent Youth Self-Report (YSR). Psychosocial functioning was rated by Child Global Assessment Scale (cGAS). Adolescent Quality of Life was assessed by Pediatric Quality of Life inventory (PedsQL) and chronic family difficulties (CFD) by interview. Medical records were reviewed for somatic history. Results: Thirty-seven adolescents, 28 males, median age 14.3 years, participated. By CAS interview, 8 of 37 (44% of females and 14% of males) fulfilled criteria for psychiatric diagnosis all within emotional and related disorders. Twenty-seven percent had CBCL internalizing scores and 16% had YSR internalizing scores in clinical range indicating emotional problems. By interviewer rated cGAS, 27% were scored in clinical range. By PedsQL 16% reported reduced psychosocial health score. Increased CFD, lower psychosocial functioning and reduced QoL as well as less paternal education were significantly associated with psychiatric diagnosis. Twice as many (4/8) adolescents who either had a stoma or bowel management had a psychiatric diagnosis compared to those who had neither stoma nor bowel management (7/28). Conclusion: Nearly one in four adolescents with HD fulfilled criteria for psychiatric diagnosis. Mental health problems were associated with reduced psychosocial function and reduced QoL. Level of evidence: III.

• David, Linda W.; Stenberg, Nina; Diseth, Trond Haaken; Helverschou, Sissel Berge; Nyquist, Cecilie Bjertness & Øien, Roald A [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2023). Autistic Characteristics in a Nationally Representative Clinical Sample of Adolescents Seeking Medical Gender-Affirming Treatment in Norway. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. ISSN 0162-3257. doi: 10.1007/s10803-023-06181-6. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Purpose - Several studies have reported on the intersection of autism and gender incongruence (GI) in clinical populations. This study aims to investigate autistic characteristics and registered autism spectrum diagnoses (ASD) in a clinical cohort of 83 adolescents referred to the National Gender Team for Children and Adolescents in Norway during 2020.<p> <p>Methods - Parents completed the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS). Background information and registered psychiatric diagnoses were extracted from patient files.<p> <p>Results - The results showed that 25% of the participants scored within the clinical range on the SRS: 27.4% of adolescents who were assigned female at birth (AFAB) and 19.0% of adolescents who were assigned male at birth (AMAB). AFAB had significantly higher scores on SRS Total Scale and the Social Motivation and Autistic Mannerisms subscales compared to the female norm group. AMAB had higher scores on the Social Motivation subscale and lower scores on the Social Awareness subscale, compared to the male norm population. Information from patient files revealed that 67.5% had one or more registered psychiatric diagnosis. 9.6% had received an ASD diagnosis, all AFAB. 18.1% had received an attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnosis. The most common psychiatric diagnoses were depression (25.3%) and anxiety disorders (18.1%). Further, 44.6% had a history of self-harm, and 15.7% had a history of a suicide attempt.<p> <p>Conclusion - The results showed an overrepresentation of ASD diagnoses and autistic characteristics measured by SRS for AFAB. There was an overrepresentation of psychiatric diagnoses for both the AFAB and the AMAB group in this study sample. Implications for treatment and future research are discussed.

• Førde, Stein; Herner, Linn Breen; Helland, Ingrid B & Diseth, Trond Haaken (2022). The biopsychosocial model in paediatric clinical practice—An interdisciplinary approach to somatic symptom disorders. Acta Paediatrica. ISSN 0803-5253. 111, p. 2115–2124. doi: 10.1111/apa.16517. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Aim The paper aims to show how the biopsychosocial (BPS) model can be applied as a clinical method and guide the assessment and treatment of children and adolescents with somatic symptom disorders (SSD). Methods Based on relevant literature and our clinical work with children and adolescents with SSD, we have developed a method to ensure a structured, interdisciplinary examination of biological, psychological and social factors, operationalising the BPS model into a clinical method. Results The BPS model renders assessment and treatment of complex conditions as a basis for evaluating phenomena not confined by diagnostic tools, but still includes all information from these tools. It requires an interdisciplinary approach, giving individual patient and caregivers a central position. A thorough medical examination is required as a starting point for assessments. Good results rest upon a shared understanding between patient, caregivers and professionals. Conclusions ‘Biopsychosocial’ is often claimed as a basis for clinical work with complex cases, medical, functional and psychiatric, but scarcely with a corresponding BPS method or practice. The BPS method should guide further development of holistic, interdisciplinary health care on all levels, to assess and help children and adolescents with SSD.

• Wæhre, Anne; Heggeli, Charlotte; Hald, Kirsten; Myhre, Anne Grethe & Diseth, Trond Haaken (2022). A 15–20-year follow-up of mental health, psychosocial functioning and quality of life in a single center sample of individuals with differences in sex development. Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine. 10(1), p. 837–854. doi: 10.1080/21642850.2022.2116329. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: The aim of the study was to present metal health, psychosocial functioning and quality of life (QoL) of children and adolescents with a difference in sex development (DSD) from their first visit in the newly established multidisciplinary team in 2002–2004 in Norway. A secondary aim was to explore mental health, psychosocial functioning and QoL in the same cohort patient’s as for today and finally explore any childhood predictors for these outcomes in adulthood. Methods: The first part of the study took place in 2002–2004 in a mixed cohort of children and adolescents born with a DSD in 1982–2002, compared to a healthy comparison group. This part involved semi-structured interviews and self-reported and proxy-reported questionnaires. The second part of the study is a longitudinal study of the same participants 15–20 years later (2018–2020). Results: The participants at baseline of the study consisted of 33 patients; 24 assigned females (congenital adrenal hyperplasia, androgen insensitivity syndrome, gonadal dysgenesis and ovotesticular DSD) and nine assigned males; all with a hypospadias diagnosis. Significant differences were found for behavioral and emotional problems between groups, 46, XX females with significant higher total scores on YSR (49.43 + 24.17, p  = .047); 46, XY females (21.00 + 12.04, p  = .032); and higher internalizing problems scores (YSR) in 46, XX females (16.57 + 9.74), compared with the 46, XY females (5.60 + 5.32, p = .047). A positive association between QoL of the participants in adulthood and PedsQL’ social function (r = .657, p = .020) and psychosocial function in childhood (r = .596, p = .041) was found. Conclusions: In summary, this study demonstrated that adolescents assigned females with DSD might have more psychiatric problems and a poorer degree of psychosocial functioning compared to a healthy comparison group. As we do find an association with these problems in adolescence and later adult QoL, it is of great importance to respond to these behaviors in early life.

• Larsen, Selma Mujezinovic; Terjesen, Terje; Jahnsen, Reidun Birgitta; Diseth, Trond Haaken & Ramstad, Kjersti (2022). Health-related quality of life in adolescents with cerebral palsy; a cross-sectional and longitudinal population-based study. Child: Care, Health and Development. ISSN 0305-1862. doi: 10.1111/cch.13055. Full text in Research Archive
• Berg, Annika Klungland; Diseth, Trond H; Abrahamsen, Tore G; Halvorsen, Kathleen; Reinfjell, Trude & Erichsen, Hans Christian (2021). Primary antibody deficiency: The impact on the quality of life and mental health of affected children and their parents. Acta Paediatrica. ISSN 0803-5253. 110, p. 1645–1652. doi: 10.1111/apa.15752. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Aim To evaluate health-related quality of life, mental health and treatment-related stress responses in children with primary antibody deficiency and both their parents. Methods Children and their parents completed the standardised questionnaires Pediatric Quality of life Inventory, Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire and Impact of Event Scale. Parents also completed standardised questionnaires regarding their own mental health and quality of life. The results were compared to those of healthy children, kidney transplanted children and children in remission from acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. Results Children with primary antibody deficiency reported a poorer health-related quality of life compared to healthy children and children in remission from acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. They reported poorer mental health compared with healthy children. Mothers of children with primary antibody deficiency reported poorer mental health compared to mothers of healthy children but comparable to mothers of chronically ill children. Parents reported a similar quality of life as the general Norwegian population. Treatment with subcutaneous immunoglobulin infusions at home is generally well tolerated, but some report severe treatment-related stress. Conclusion Primary antibody deficiency has a significant impact on quality of life and mental health of affected children. Patients and parents with severe treatment-related stress should be identified and helped.

• Gulseth, Eirik; Urdal, Andreas Martin; Andersen, Marit Helen; Diseth, Trond H; Aksnes, Gunnar & Emblem, Ragnhild [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2021). High satisfaction on genital self-perception and sexual function in healthy Norwegian male adolescents. Journal of Pediatric Urology. ISSN 1477-5131. 17(4), p. 555.E1–555.E8. doi: 10.1016/j.jpurol.2021.02.015. Full text in Research Archive
• DAHL, HILDE MARGRETE; Andelic, Nada; Løvstad, Marianne; Holthe, Ingvil Laberg; Hestnes, Morten & Diseth, Trond H [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2021). Epidemiology of traumatic brain injury in children 15 years and younger in South-Eastern Norway in 2015–16. Implications for prevention and follow-up needs. European journal of paediatric neurology. ISSN 1090-3798. 31, p. 70–77. doi: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2021.02.002. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Objective This retrospective study aimed to describe the volume, severity, and injury mechanism of all hospital-admitted pediatric traumatic brain injury (pTBI) at Oslo University Hospital (OUH), emphasizing consequences for prevention and factors indicating a need for follow-up programs. Method Data were extracted from the OUH Trauma registry on 176 children, 0–15 years old, admitted to OUH in 2015 and 2016 with a pTBI diagnosis. The dataset contains demographic data, injury mechanism, type, and severity (Glasgow coma scale, GCS; abbreviated injury scale, AIS; injury severity score, ISS), ICD-10 diagnosis codes, level of treatment, and destination of discharge. Results 79.5% had mild, 9% moderate, and 11.4% severe TBI. The incidence of hospital-treated pTBI in Oslo was 29 per 100,000 per year. The boy: girl ratio was 1.9:1, but in the young teenage group (14–15 years), the ratio was 1:1. Intracranial injury (ICI) identified on CT/MRI was associated with extended hospital stays, with a median of 6 days compared to 1 day for patients without ICI. 27% of the patients assessed as mild TBI at admission had ICI. Children below eight years of age had a higher incidence of moderate and severe ICI from trauma (53% v.s. 28% in children ≥ eight years). Conclusion The injury characteristics of hospital-treated pTBI are in line with other European countries, but we find the boy-girl ratio different as young teenage girls seem to be catching up with the boys. ICI and length of stay should be considered when deciding which patients need follow-up and rehabilitation.

• Grosch, Inger Bygland; Andresen, Brith; Diep, Lien My; Diseth, Trond Haaken & Möller, Thomas (2021). Quality of life and emotional vulnerability in a national cohort of adolescents living with Fontan circulation. Cardiology in the Young. ISSN 1047-9511. p. 1–9. doi: 10.1017/S1047951121003188. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Introduction: To investigate quality of life and mental health after Fontan completion, we aimed to characterise outcomes in a representative group of adolescent patients. The study was part of the pre-transition clinical work-up in adolescents with Fontan-type palliation of univentricular CHD. The programme covers the entire paediatric Fontan patient population in Norway. Methods: Our cross-sectional study included 42 adolescents with Fontan circulation aged 15–18. We recruited a control group of 29 healthy peers. Quality of life was measured by the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Questionnaire, while mental health was assessed with the Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire. Results: Fontan patients scored lower than healthy controls on the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory total (p = 0.004), the physical (p < 0.001) and social (p = 0.001) functioning subscale, and the Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire subscale of emotional symptoms (p = 0.035). Compared to two of the healthy teens (7%), seven patients (16%) in the Fontan group scored as having impaired mental health (p = 0.224). The female/male ratio for individuals with impaired health was 7:2 (p = 0.003). Conclusions: Compared to healthy controls, adolescents after Fontan-type palliation in Norway have good health-related quality of life and mental health, despite having slightly lower score than healthy individuals, mainly in physical domains and school functioning. Compared to healthy controls and healthy teenagers, these adolescents have somewhat more emotional problems, and compared to male patients, female patients more often have impaired mental health.

• Henriksen, Mari Wold; Breck, Hilde; Sejersted, Yngve; Diseth, Trond H; Tetzchner, Stephen von & Paus, Benedicte [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2020). Genetic and clinical variations in a Norwegian sample diagnosed with Rett syndrome. Brain & development (Tokyo. 1979). ISSN 0387-7604. 42(7), p. 484–495. doi: 10.1016/j.braindev.2020.03.008. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background and purpose: Rett syndrome (RTT) is a neurodevelopmental disorder mainly caused by mutations in MECP2. The diagnostic criteria of RTT are clinical; mutations in MECP2 are neither diagnostic nor necessary, and a mutation in another gene does not exclude RTT. We attempted to correlate genotype and phenotype to see if there are significant clinical associations. Methods: All available females diagnosed with RTT in Norway were invited to the study. Parents were interviewed, the girl or woman with RTT examined and medical records reviewed. All diagnoses were revisited according to the current diagnostic criteria and exome-based sequencing analyses were performed in individuals without an identified causative mutation. Participants were categorized according to genotypes and RTT diagnosis. Individuals with RTT with and without mutations in MECP2 were compared. Results: Ninety-one individuals were included. A presumed causative mutation was identified in 86 individuals, of these, mutations in MECP2 in 77 individuals and mutations in SMC1A, SYNGAP1, SCN1A, CDKL5, FOXG1 or chromosome 13q in nine. Seventy-two individuals fulfilled the diagnostic criteria for classic and 12 for atypical RTT. Significant differences in early development, loss of hand use and language, intense eye gaze and the presence of early onset epilepsy were revealed in individuals with RTT according to their MECP2 genotypic status. Conclusion: Using the current diagnostic criteria, genetic and clinical variation in RTT is considerable. Significant differences between individuals with RTT with and without MECP2 mutations indicate that MECP2 is a major determinant for the clinical phenotype in individuals with RTT. Keywords: Clinical phenotype; Epilepsy; Exome sequencing; Genetic variation; MECP2; Rett syndrome.

• Mikkelsen, Audun; Boye, Birgitte; Diseth, Trond H; Malt, Ulrik Fredrik; Mørkrid, Lars & Ijsselstijn, Hanneke [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2020). Traumatic stress, mental health and quality of life in adolescents with esophageal atresia. Journal of Pediatric Surgery. ISSN 0022-3468. 15(26), p. 1–9. doi: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2020.10.029. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Introduction We aimed to investigate QoL in EA patients in relation to comparison groups and to clinical factors including experienced traumatic stress. Material and Methods Adolescents with EA in Norway born between 1996 and 2002 were included. Clinical assessment and patient's characteristics were collected. Quality of life (PedsQL), traumatic stress (IES-13) and mental health (SDQ-20) were compared to groups of healthy controls, children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and kidney transplanted children (TX). Results 68 EA adolescents participated. Total scores for PedsQL were not different from the healthy group and ALL patients, but significantly better than the TX patients. The subscale for physical performance was significantly lower than in healthy adolescents, and nine (17%) patients had scores ≤70 indicating reduced health status. Five EA adolescents (12%) had mental health scores suggesting a psychiatric disorder, and six (9%) reported high traumatic stress scores with a significant correlation to days on ventilator in the neonatal period. The strongest predictors for quality of life among EA adolescents were self-reported mental health, posttraumatic stress and GERD symptoms. Conclusion Scores for Quality of life in the EA group are good except for subscale for physical performance. Symptoms of posttraumatic stress, mental strain and gastroesophageal reflux are predictors of reduced QoL.

• Lofstad, Grete Elisabeth; Reinfjell, Trude; Weider, Siri; Diseth, Trond H & Hestad, Knut (2019). Neurocognitive Outcome and Compensating Possibilities in Children and Adolescents Treated for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia With Chemotherapy Only. Frontiers in Psychology. 10(1027). doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.01027. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Aim: To examine the neurocognitive outcomes in children and adolescents with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in remission who were treated with systemic chemotherapy only (CTO). Methods: Neurocognitive performances in 36 children and adolescents, aged 8.4–15.3 years, in long-term remission from ALL 4.3–12.4 years post diagnosis, without relapse, and with no pre-diagnosis history of neurodevelopmental disorder were compared with 36 healthy controls matched for gender, age, and parents’ socio-economic status. The former patients and the healthy controls completed an extensive battery of standardized neuropsychological tests. Results: Survivors who were treated by CTO obtained significantly lower scores than did healthy controls on the domains of Copy and drawing (p = 0.001; Cohen’s d 0.85; after controlling for Type 1 errors q = 0.006), Arithmetic (p = 0.001; Cohen’s d 0.80; after controlling for Type 1 errors, q = 0.006), and Tactile sensory functions (p = 0.008; Cohen’s d 0.65; after controlling for Type 1 errors, q = 0.03). Fifty percent of the ALL group were more than 1 SD below the control groups mean on Copy and drawing. There was an interaction between age and group (ALL vs. Control, p = 0.042) on Copy and drawing, indicating that the youngest ALL patients exhibited the worst performance. The oldest ALL patients performed equal to or better than the controls. A tendency in the same direction was seen for Arithmetic and Tactile sensory functions. The ALL survivors exhibited a steeper rising learning slope on repeated tests, with lower scores on a tactile problem-solving task, tactile sensory tests, verbal memory, and visual attention, but they performed as well as the controls when stimuli were repeated. Conclusion: The results indicate that neurocognitive long-term sequelae in ALL survivors are limited to specific domains – particularly complex drawing, arithmetic, and tactile processing, and novelty processing. Cognitive deficits are shown among the youngest ALL patients. Intervention programs and school programs should account for difficulties with processing new information and taking advantage of repetitions as a strength, which may prevent survivors from falling behind their peers.

• Weissner, Kristin Howlid; Diseth, Trond H; Boye, Birgitte; Færden, Ann & Ekeberg, Øivind (2019). Examining the organization and quality of the psychiatric consultative service in Norway. Nordic Journal of Psychiatry. ISSN 0803-9488. 73(1), p. 9–15. doi: 10.1080/08039488.2018.1525426. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Aim: Patients admitted to somatic departments may face psychiatric challenges, such as suicidal behavior, substance abuse, crisis reactions, or somatoform disorders. Mental disorders can complicate the diagnosis and treatment of a somatic disorder. The Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry Service (CLP) can provide advice and guidance to attending staff in somatic departments. CLP in Norwegian hospitals was last reviewed in 1997. There is insufficient awareness of the service as it currently stands. This specialist field is expanding, and there is a need to examine how the service is organized at present and how it works. Materials and methods: A study of the scope, quality, availability, content, and organization of the psychiatric consultative service was conducted in February–March 2016. The study also examined whether service users and providers were satisfied with the service, the content of the service, and whether they considered the service to be adequate. Results and conclusions: Although CLP has expanded over the last three years, somatic and psychiatric departments wish for its further expansion. The service provision is at an acceptable level during the daytime, but not during weekends and holidays. We found that 20% of all referrals are rejected and that 80–90% of all physicians wanted outpatient services for short-term follow-up and for help with undiagnosed, unclear, unexplained, (indeterminate) conditions. Discussion: The service works satisfactorily during ordinary working hours. There is a need to establish outpatient services and to strengthen the services outside these hours. Collaborative research should be further developed.

• Larsen, Kenneth; Aasland, Astrid; Schjølberg, Synnve; Hansen, Ulla & Diseth, Trond H (2019). Piloting the use of a short observation list for ASD-symptoms in day-care: Challenges and further possibilities. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. ISSN 0162-3257. p. 1–11. doi: 10.1007/s10803-019-04313-5. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Early symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) develop through the second year of life, making a stable ASD diagnosis possible around 24 months of age. However, in general, children with ASD are diagnosed later. In this study we explored the use of a short observation list to detect symptoms associated with ASD in children 12–24 months of age attending typical day-care centers. The results indicate that a short observation list used by day-care teachers does not reveal sufficient properties to be independently used in young children in day-care centers. Further studies should explore multiple and repeated measures for early detection of symptoms associated with ASD in typical day-care centers.

• Smeland, Anja Hetland; Rustøen, Tone; Næss, Torgun; Nybro, Lill; Lundeberg, Stefan & Reinertsen, Hanne [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2019). Children's views on postsurgical pain in recovery units in Norway: A qualitative study. Journal of Clinical Nursing (JCN). ISSN 0962-1067. 28, p. 2157–2170. doi: 10.1111/jocn.14788. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Aims and objectives: To explore children’s postsurgical experiences with pain and pain management in the recovery unit. Background: Children’s pain is underestimated and undertreated. Untreated pain can cause unnecessary suffering, increased complication risks, and may lead to chronic pain. Research exploring children’s experiences with postoperative pain and pain management is limited. Design: A qualitative, exploratory study. The study complied with the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ). Methods: Children (N=20), 8–16 years old, took part in semi-structured interviews about their experiences with pain and postoperative pain management while they were in a recovery unit. Data were collected at two university hospitals in Norway. Content analysis was used to analyse the data. Results: Three themes emerged from the interviews; “children’s experiences of what felt unpleasant and painful”, “children’s experiences with pain management” and “children’s recommendations for future pain management”. About half of the children reported moderate to severe pain while in the recovery unit and they did not always tell their nurses when they had pain. They also reported experiencing pain in places other than their surgical wounds and stated that nausea and vomiting felt unpleasant and painful. The children indicated that pain medications and the use of non-pharmacological methods helped them cope with their pain and provided several recommendations about how to improve pain management. Conclusion: Paediatric postoperative pain management remains suboptimal. The children in our study provided useful information about their pain experiences, how to improve pain management and explained why they did not tell their nurses when they were in pain. Relevance to clinical practice: These findings should direct further improvements in paediatric postoperative pain management, such as increased use of pain assessment tools and preparatory information, as well as more appropriate administration of pain medications.

• Larsen, Kenneth Røed; Aasland, Astrid & Diseth, Trond H (2018). Identification of Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorders in the Second Year of Life at Day-Care Centres by Day-Care Staff: Step One in the Development of a Short Observation List. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. ISSN 0162-3257. 48, p. 2267–2277. doi: 10.1007/s10803-018-3489-x. Full text in Research Archive
• Reinfjell, Trude & Diseth, Trond H (2018). Pre-procedure Evaluation and Psychological Screening of Children and Adolescents in Pediatric Clinics. In Guerrero, Anthony P. S.; Lee, Paul C. & Skokauskas, Nobert (Ed.), Pediatric Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry - A Global, Healthcare Systems-Focused, and Problem-Based Approach. Springer. ISSN 9783319894881. p. 193–215. doi: 10.1007/978-3-319-89488-1_11. Full text in Research Archive
• Bugge, Ingrid; Jensen, Tine Kristin; Nilsen, Lisa Govasli; Ekeberg, Øivind; Dyb, Grete & Diseth, Trond H (2018). Psychosocial care for hospitalized young survivors after the terror attack on Utøya Island: A qualitative study of the survivors’ experiences. Injury. ISSN 0020-1383. p. 1–8. doi: 10.1016/j.injury.2018.10.024. Full text in Research Archive
• Thorsteinsdottir, Hjørdis; Diseth, Trond H; Lie, Anine; Tangeraas, Trine; Matthews, Iren & Åsberg, Anders [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2018). Small effort, high impact: Focus on physical activity improves oxygen uptake (VO2peak), quality of life, and mental health after pediatric renal transplantation. Pediatric Transplantation. ISSN 1397-3142. 22:e13242(6), p. 1–9. doi: 10.1111/petr.13242. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  This study estimates the effects on peak oxygen uptake (VO2 peak), QoL, and mental health after the introduction of an adjusted post‐transplant follow‐up program, that is, early physiotherapy and focus on the importance of physical activity. VO2 peak was measured by a treadmill exercise test in 20 renal‐transplanted children on the adjusted post‐transplant follow‐up and compared with a group of 22 patients investigated in a previously, before the implementation of our new follow‐up routines. PedsQL and The Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) were used to assess QoL and mental health in 45 patients on the new as compared to 32 patients on the previous follow‐up strategy. The patients exposed to early physiotherapy and a higher focus on physical activity had significantly higher VO2 peak (44.3 vs 33.5 mL kg−1 min−1, P = .031) in addition to improved QoL (P = .003) and mental health scores (P = .012). The cardiovascular risk profile was similar in both groups aside from significantly higher triglycerides in the present cohort. Small efforts as early physiotherapy and increased focus on physical activity after pediatric renal transplantation have significant impact on cardiorespiratory fitness, QoL, and mental health. The importance of physical activity should therefore be emphasized in follow‐up programs.

• Diseth, Trond H & Emblem, Ragnhild (2017). Long-term psychosocial consequences of surgical congenital malformations. Seminars in Pediatric Surgery. ISSN 1055-8586. 26(5), p. 286–294. doi: 10.1053/j.sempedsurg.2017.09.009. Full text in Research Archive
• Munkhaugen, Ellen Kathrine; Torske, Tonje; Gjevik, Elen; Nærland, Terje; Pripp, Are Hugo & Diseth, Trond H (2017). Individual characteristics of students with autism spectrum disorders and school refusal behavior. Autism. ISSN 1362-3613. 23(2), p. 413–423. doi: 10.1177/1362361317748619. Full text in Research Archive
• Larsen, Kenneth; Aasland, Astrid & Diseth, Trond H (2017). Brief report: agreement between parents and day-care professionals on early symptoms associated with autism spectrum disorders. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. ISSN 0162-3257. 48(4), p. 1063–1068. doi: 10.1007/s10803-017-3355-2. Full text in Research Archive
• Bugge, Ingrid; Dyb, Grete; Stensland, Synne; Ekeberg, Øivind; Wentzel-Larsen, Tore & Diseth, Trond H (2017). Physical Injury and Somatic Complaints: The Mediating Role of Posttraumatic Stress Symptoms in Young Survivors of a Terror Attack. Journal of Traumatic Stress. ISSN 0894-9867. 30(3), p. 229–236. doi: 10.1002/jts.22191. Full text in Research Archive
• Munkhaugen, Ellen Kathrine; Gjevik, Elen; Pripp, Are Hugo; Sponheim, Eili & Diseth, Trond H (2017). School refusal behaviour: Are children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder at a higher risk? Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders. ISSN 1750-9467. 41-42, p. 31–38. doi: 10.1016/j.rasd.2017.07.001. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  School refusal behaviour in students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is poorly studied despite being considered a serious problem. This study assessed the frequency, duration, and expression of school refusal behaviour in students with ASD, aged 9–16 years, without intellectual disability. Further, the associations between school refusal behaviour and sociodemographic factors were explored. Teachers and parents assessed this behaviour over 20 days in a cross-sectional study of 216 students, including 78 students with ASD and 138 typically developing (TD) students. School refusal behaviour was significantly higher in students with ASD as compared to TD students. Significant associations were found between school refusal behaviour and illness of other family members. The study concludes that school refusal behaviour is pervasive in students with ASD. Munkhaugen, Ellen Kathrine, et al. "School refusal behaviour: Are children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder at a higher risk?." Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders 41 (2017): 31-38. © 2017. This manuscript version is made available under the CC-BY-NC-ND 4.0 license.

• Ramstad, Kjersti; Jahnsen, Reidun & Diseth, Trond H (2016). Associations between recurrent musculoskeletal pain and visits to the family doctor (GP) and specialist multi-professional team in 74 Norwegian youth with cerebral palsy. Child: Care, Health and Development. ISSN 0305-1862. 42(5), p. 735–741. doi: 10.1111/cch.12366. Full text in Research Archive
• Misund, Aud R.; Bråten, Stein Leif; Nerdrum, Per; Pripp, Are Hugo & Diseth, Trond H (2016). A Norwegian prospective study of preterm mother–infant interactions at 6 and 18 months and the impact of maternal mental health problems, pregnancy and birth complications. BMJ Open. 6(e009699). doi: 10.1136/bmjopen-2015-009699. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Objective: Pregnancy, birth and health complications, maternal mental health problems following preterm birth and their possible impact on early mother – infant interaction at 6 and 18 months corrected age (CA) were explored. Predictors of mother – infant interaction at 18 months CA were identified. Design and methods: This prospective longitudinal and observational study included 33 preterm mother – infant (<33 gestational age (GA)) interactions at 6 and 18 months CA from a socioeconomic low-risk, middle- class sample. The Parent – Child Early Relational Assessment (PCERA) scale was used to assess the mother – infant interaction. Results: ‘ Bleeding in pregnancy ’ predicted lower quality in preterm mother – infant interaction in 6 PCERA scales, while high ‘ maternal trait anxiety ’ predicted higher interactional quality in 2 PCERA scales and ‘ family size ’ predicted lower interactional quality in 1 PCERA scale at 18 months CA. Mothers with symptoms of post- traumatic stress reactions, general psychological distress and anxiety at 2 weeks postpartum (PP) showed significantly better outcome than mothers without symptoms in 6 PCERA subscales at 6 months CA and 2 PCERA subscales at 18 months CA. Conclusions: Our study detected a correspondence between early pregnancy complications and lower quality of preterm mother – infant interaction, and an association between high levels of maternal mental health problems and better quality in preterm mother – infant interaction.

• Eilertsen, Mary-Elizabeth Bradley; Hjemdal, Odin; Le, Thien Thanh; Diseth, Trond H & Reinfjell, Trude (2016). Resilience factors play an important role in the mental health of parents when children survive acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. Acta Paediatrica. ISSN 0803-5253. 105(1), p. e30–e34. doi: 10.1111/apa.13232. Full text in Research Archive
• Ramstad, Kjersti; Jahnsen, Reidun & Diseth, Trond H (2015). Ungdom med cerebral parese og deres kontakt med fastlege og habiliteringstjeneste :. Tidsskrift for Den norske legeforening (Tidsskriftet). ISSN 0029-2001. 135(5), p. 429–433. doi: 10.4045/tidsskr.14.0434. Full text in Research Archive
• Ramstad, Kjersti; Loge, Jon Håvard; Jahnsen, Reidun & Diseth, Trond H (2015). Self-reported mental health in youth with cerebral palsy and associations to recurrent musculoskeletal pain. Disability and Rehabilitation. ISSN 0963-8288. 37(2), p. 144–150. doi: 10.3109/09638288.2014.913703. Full text in Research Archive
• Bugge, Ingrid; Dyb, Grete; Stensland, Synne; Ekeberg, Øivind; Wentzel-Larsen, Tore & Diseth, Trond H (2015). Physical injury and posttraumatic stress reactions. A study of the survivors of the 2011 shooting massacre on Utøya Island, Norway. Journal of Psychosomatic Research. ISSN 0022-3999. 79(5), p. 384–390. doi: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2015.09.005. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to investigate the relationship between physical injury (no, moderate and severe) and posttraumatic stress reactions (PTSR) at 4-5months after the attack in survivors of the terror attack at Utøya Island, Norway, 22 July 2011, adjusting for sociodemographic, psychosocial and trauma-related factors. METHODS: Overall, 325 young survivors (47% women, mean age 19.4years) were interviewed 4-5months (T1) and 14-15months (T2) after the attack. Variables concerning physical injury, PTSR (UCLA PTSD-RI scale, 0-4), peritraumatic exposure, sociodemographic and psychosocial backgrounds were measured. To evaluate the role of injury, multiple linear regression analyses were conducted. RESULTS: The physically injured (n=60) reported higher levels of PTSR than did the non-injured. The difference was statistically significant between the moderately injured (n=37, mean 1.9) and the non-injured (n=265, mean 1.5). No significant differences were found between the moderately and the severely (n=23, mean 1.8) injured. Higher levels of peritraumatic events, peritraumatic reactions and loss of close, female sex and non-Norwegian ethnicity were significantly related to higher levels of PTSR in the full regression model. CONCLUSION: Physical injury was associated with higher PTSR after the terror attack. Moderately injured survivors may, as those severely injured, exhibit high levels of PTSR, and this should be taken into account when targeting early psychosocial health care after terror.

• Dyb, Grete; Jensen, Tine Kristin; Nygaard, Egil; Ekeberg, Øivind; Diseth, Trond H & Wentzel-Larsen, Tore [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2014). Post-traumatic stress reactions in survivors of the 2011 massacre on Utøya Island, Norway. British Journal of Psychiatry. ISSN 0007-1250. 204(5), p. 361–367. doi: 10.1192/bjp.bp.113.133157. Full text in Research Archive
• Misund, Aud R.; Nerdrum, Per & Diseth, Trond H (2014). Mental health in women experiencing preterm birth. BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth. 14:263. doi: 10.1186/1471-2393-14-263. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: The aim of the study was to explore the degree of psychological distress, anxiety, and trauma related stress reactions in mothers who experience preterm birth. Secondarily, we wanted to identify possible predictors of maternal mental health problems. Methods: Twenty-nine mothers of 35 premature children born before 33rd week of pregnancy were assessed within two weeks after given birth. The standardized psychometric methods; Impact of Event Scale (IES), General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) and State Anxiety Inventory (STAI) assessed mental health problems. The predictors for maternal distress, anxiety, and trauma related stress reactions were pregnancy variables, preterm delivery, Gestation Age, maternal trait anxiety and parity. In addition, maternal prevalence of mental health problems was assessed by clinical diagnoses. Results Our study revealed a high prevalence (52%) of posttraumatic stress responses in the mothers. Conclusions: Our results suggest an early examination of mothers’ psychological reactions to preterm birth at the maternity ward. An early intervention should be considered while the child still is in the neonatal intensive care unit.

• Reinfjell, Trude; Vikan, Arne & Diseth, Trond H (2014). Barns forståelse og tilpasning til alvorlig sykdom og død. Omsorg: Nordisk tidsskrift for Palliativ Medisin. ISSN 0800-7489. 4, p. 11–16. Full text in Research Archive
• Misund, Aud R.; Nerdrum, Per; Bråten, Stein Leif; Pripp, Are Hugo & Diseth, Trond H (2013). Long-term risk of mental health problems in women experiencing preterm birth: a longitudinal study of 29 mothers. Annals of General Psychiatry. 12:33. doi: 10.1186/1744-859X-12-33. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Background: Several studies have reported significantly higher stress levels, both short and long terms, among mothers giving preterm birth compared with mothers giving birth at term. Stress, however, is a psychological phenomenon that may present as anxiety, depression and/or trauma reactions. In this study, the long-term mental health outcomes and the prevalence of anxiety, depression and trauma reactions in women experiencing preterm birth were explored. Interactional, main effect variables and predictors were identified. Methods: Twenty-nine mothers of 35 premature children born before the 33rd week of pregnancy were assessed within 2 weeks postpartum (T0), 2 weeks after hospitalization (T1), 6 months post-term (T2), and 18 months post-term (T3). The standardized psychometric methods Impact of Event Scale (IES), General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) and State Anxiety Inventory (STAI-X1) assessed the maternal mental health outcomes. Results: The maternal mental health problems except state anxiety decreased from T0 to T1, but remained high and stable at T3. The prevalence of posttraumatic stress reactions (PTSR) and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) at T0 and T3 was 52% and 23%, respectively. We identified the time period between T0 and T1 to have a significant main effect on mental health outcomes. The predictors of higher levels of mental health problems were preeclampsia, previous psychological treatment, age, trait anxiety and infant's postnatal intraventricular haemorrhage. Bleeding in pregnancy predicted lower levels of mental health problems. Conclusions: The prevalence of maternal mental health problems remained high, emphasizing the importance of effective interventions

• Isaksen, Jørn; Bryn, Vesna; Diseth, Trond H; Heiberg, Arvid; Schjølberg, Synnve & Skjeldal, Ola (2013). Children with autism spectrum disorders - The importance of medical investigations. European journal of paediatric neurology. ISSN 1090-3798. 17(1), p. 68–76. doi: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2012.08.004. Full text in Research Archive
• Isaksen, Jørn; Diseth, Trond H; Schjølberg, Synnve & Skjeldal, Ola (2013). Autism Spectrum Disorders - Are they really epidemic? European journal of paediatric neurology. ISSN 1090-3798. 17(4), p. 327–333. doi: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2013.03.003. Full text in Research Archive
• Isaksen, Jørn; Diseth, Trond H; Schjølberg, Synnve & Skjeldal, Ola (2012). Observed prevalence of autism spectrum disorders in two Norwegian counties. European journal of paediatric neurology. ISSN 1090-3798. 16(6), p. 592–598. doi: 10.1016/j.ejpn.2012.01.014. Full text in Research Archive
• Ramberg, Brith Klæboe & Diseth, Trond H (2012). Barn med langvarig smerte: fanget i vonde sirkler - veier ut. Tidsskrift for Norsk psykologforening (Psykologtidsskriftet). ISSN 0332-6470. 49(3), p. 241–246. Full text in Research Archive
• Ramstad, Kjersti; Jahnsen, Reidun; Skjeldal, Ola & Diseth, Trond H (2012). Parent-reported participation in children with cerebral palsy: the contribution of recurrent musculoskeletal pain and child mental health problems. Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology. ISSN 0012-1622. 54(9), p. 829–835. doi: 10.1111/j.1469-8749.2012.04341.x. Full text in Research Archive
• Bastian, Uta; Neumer, Simon-Peter & Diseth, Trond H (2012). Mestringskatten - en kognitiv behandlingsmetode for barn med angst. Paidos: Tidsskrift for Norsk barnelegeforening. ISSN 1503-5360. 30(4), p. 194–197. Full text in Research Archive
• Ramstad, Kjersti; Jahnsen, Reidun; Skjeldal, Ola & Diseth, Trond H (2012). Mental health, health related quality of life and recurrent musculoskeletal pain in children with cerebral palsy 8-18 years old. Disability and Rehabilitation. ISSN 0963-8288. 34(19), p. 1589–1595. doi: 10.3109/09638288.2012.656794. Full text in Research Archive
• Diseth, Trond H; Tangeraas, Trine; Reinfjell, Trude & Bjerre, Anna Kristina (2011). Kidney transplantation in childhood: mental health and quality of life of children and caregivers. Pediatric nephrology (Berlin, West). ISSN 0931-041X. 26(10), p. 1881–1892. doi: 10.1007/s00467-011-1887-9. Full text in Research Archive
• Gjems, Solveig & Diseth, Trond H (2011). Forebygging og behandling av psykologiske traumer hos somatisk syke barn :. Tidsskrift for Norsk psykologforening (Psykologtidsskriftet). ISSN 0332-6470. 48(9), p. 857–862. Full text in Research Archive
• Gjone, Inger Helene; Diseth, Trond H; Fausa, Olav; Nøvik, Torunn Stene & Heiberg, Astrid Nøklebye (2011). Familial adenomatous polyposis: mental health, psychosocial functioning and reactions to genetic risk in adolescents. Clinical Genetics. ISSN 0009-9163. 79(1), p. 35–43. doi: 10.1111/j.1399-0004.2010.01534.x. Full text in Research Archive
• Ramstad, Kjersti; Jahnsen, Reidun Birgitta; Skjeldal, Ola & Diseth, Trond H (2011). Characteristics of recurrent musculoskeletal pain in children with cerebral palsy aged 8 to 18 years. Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology. ISSN 0012-1622. 53(11), p. 1013–1018. doi: 10.1111/j.1469-8749.2011.04070.x. Full text in Research Archive
• Tønseth, Kim Aleksander; Bjark, Therese Halvorsen; Kratz, Gunnar; Gross, Annika; Kirschner, Rolf Steinar & Schreiner, Thomas [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2010). Kjønnskorrigerende kirurgi ved transseksualisme. Tidsskrift for Den norske legeforening (Tidsskriftet). ISSN 0029-2001. 130(4), p. 376–379. doi: 10.4045/tidsskr.08.0670. Full text in Research Archive
• Faugli, Anne; Bjørnland, Kristin; Emblem, Ragnhild; Nøvik, Torunn Stene & Diseth, Trond H (2009). Mental health and psychosocial functioning in adolescents with esophageal atresia. Journal of Pediatric Surgery. ISSN 0022-3468. 44(4), p. 729–737. doi: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2008.09.027. Full text in Research Archive
• Fredriksen, Per Morten; Diseth, Trond H & Thaulow, Erik (2009). Children and adolescents with congenital heart disease: assessment of behavioural and emotional problems. European Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. ISSN 1018-8827. 18(5), p. 292–300. doi: 10.1007/s00787-008-0730-8. Full text in Research Archive
• Faugli, Anne; Emblem, Ragnhild; Bjørnland, Kristin & Diseth, Trond H (2009). MENTAL HEALTH IN INFANTS WITH ESOPHAGEAL ATRESIA. Infant Mental Health Journal. ISSN 0163-9641. 30(1), p. 40–56. doi: 10.1002/imhj.20202. Full text in Research Archive
• Lofstad, Elisabeth G; Reinfjell, Trude; Hestad, Knut & Diseth, Trond H (2009). Cognitive outcome in children and adolescents treated for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia with chemotherapy only. Acta Paediatrica. ISSN 0803-5253. 98, p. 180–186. doi: 10.1111/j.1651-2227.2008.01055.x. Full text in Research Archive
• Skjeldal, Ola; Capjon, Hilde; Dahl, Arve & Diseth, Trond H (2009). Therapy in a subtropical climate for children with cerebral palsy. Evidence of physical and psychosocial effects? Acta Paediatrica. ISSN 0803-5253. 98(4), p. 670–674. doi: 10.1111/j.1651-2227.2008.01114.x. Full text in Research Archive
• Diseth, Trond H (2008). Barn født med uklare kjønnskarakteristika. Tidsskrift for Den norske legeforening (Tidsskriftet). ISSN 0029-2001. 128(5), p. 576–580. Full text in Research Archive
• Faugli, Anne; Emblem, Ragnhild; Veenstra, Marijke; Bjørnland, Kristin & Diseth, Trond H (2008). Does esophageal atresia influence the mother-infant interaction? Journal of Pediatric Surgery. ISSN 0022-3468. 43(10), p. 1796–1801. doi: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2008.04.011. Full text in Research Archive
• Huynh, Melanie E; Vandvik, Inger Helene & Diseth, Trond H (2008). Hypnotherapy in Child Psychiatry: The State of the Art. Clinical Child Psychology and Psychiatry. ISSN 1359-1045. 13(3), p. 377–393. doi: 10.1177/1359104508090601. Full text in Research Archive
• Diseth, Trond H & Malt, Ulrik Fredrik (2007). Dissosiative og somatoforme lidelser. In Gjerstad, Leif; Skjeldal, Ola & Helseth, Eirik (Ed.), Nevrologi og nevrokirurgi (4. utg). Forlaget Vett & Viten AS. ISSN 9788241206283. p. 219–228. Full text in Research Archive
• Diseth, Trond H & Malt, Ulrik Fredrik (2007). Nevropsykiatri. In Gjerstad, Leif; Skjeldal, Ola & Helseth, Eirik (Ed.), Nevrologi og nevrokirurgi (4. utg). Forlaget Vett & Viten AS. ISSN 9788241206283. p. 203–218. Full text in Research Archive
• Diseth, Trond H (2006). Dissociation following traumatic medical treatment procedures in childhood: A longitudinal follow-up. Development and Psychopathology. ISSN 0954-5794. 18(1), p. 233–251. doi: 10.1017/S0954579406060135. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Chronic illnesses often involve repeated hospitalization and invasive treatment procedures that can have a traumatic impact on child development. To explore possible consequences of treatment procedures, three groups of patients with congenital anomalies were examined longitudinally. At first admission, adolescents (ages 10–20, mean 15) with anorectal anomalies (n = 14), adolescents with Hirschsprung disease (n = 14), and hospitalized controls (n = 14) were assessed for treatment procedures, somatic function, mental health, and dissociative experiences. The assessment included the Adolescent Dissociative Experiences Scale (A-DES). At 10-year follow-up, the patients completed the Dissociative Experiences Scale (DES) and the Somatoform Dissociative Questionnaire (SDQ-20). Anal dilatation, an invasive medical treatment procedure performed daily by the parents the first 4 years, was correlated with the frequency and severity of persisting dissociative symptomatology. The procedure was the only significant predictor of A-DES and SDQ-20 scores, and one of two significant predictors of DES scores. This “experiment of nature” permitted a specific and unique opportunity to examine the impact of early traumatic exposure on child development in the absence of parental malevolence, and on later dissociative outcome in adolescence and adulthood. The findings might be valuable theoretically to our understanding of the development of psychopathology, and may lend itself for comparison with data on sexually abused children

• Diseth, Trond H (2005). Dissociation in children and adolescents as reaction to trauma � an overview of conceptual issues and neurobiological factors. Nordic Journal of Psychiatry. ISSN 0803-9488. 59(2), p. 79–91. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  The discovery of trauma as an aetiological factor in mental dissociation is more than a century old, but neurobiological research in the last decade has started to clarify a neurobiological basis that may shed light on the complex symptomatology observed in traumatized children. Dysfunctional stress responses, emotional-based style of functioning, hyperarousal, anxiety, irritability, impulsivity, disengaged attention and educational underachievement may thus begin to be better understood. The aim of this overview is to give an update on the concept of dissociation and the links to new neurobiological findings, hopefully to reduce unawareness, wrong diagnostics or even neglect of dissociative symptomatology by clinicians in child and adolescent psychiatry in the Nordic countries. A systematic overview of studies of mental dissociation in children and adolescents published over the last decade disclosed a total of 1019 references; 309 papers regarding the concept of dissociation, memory, trauma and the neurobiological correlates were studied in detail. The assumption of a trauma-genic basis of dissociation is still most discussed in the literature. The importance of other childhood trauma in addition to sexual abuse is outlined, focusing on childhood interpersonal trauma. Recent research on traumatized children and adolescents has demonstrated some permanent neurochemical as well as functional and structural abnormalities in brain areas that are involved in the integrative process of cognition and memory. This research begins to clarify the cerebral basis and mechanisms for the trauma-related dissociation observed in dissociative (conversion) disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and somatoform disorders. New perspectives on the nature of subcortical processes linking the phenomena of dissociation and traumatic experiences may have important implications for the understanding of dissociative disorders in children and adolescents. They may be regarded as complex environmentally induced developmental, supporting the view that PTSD and somatization disorders may be specific forms of dissociative processes to be categorized together with dissociative (conversion) disorders as "trauma-related dissociative disorders".

• Diseth, Trond H & Christie, Helen Johnsen (2005). Trauma-related dissociative (conversion) disorders in children and adolescents: an overview of assessment tools and treatment principles. Nordic Journal of Psychiatry. ISSN 0803-9488. 59(4), p. 278–292. doi: 10.1080/08039480500213683. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  A high proportion of patients in child and adolescent psychiatry with significant dissociative symptomatology after early childhood traumatization may go undiagnosed, be wrongly diagnosed and/or inappropriately treated. The diagnostics and treatment of dissociative disorders have been limited by lack of comprehensive, reliable and valid instruments and the ongoing polarization and fierce controversy regarding treatment. However, recent neurobiological findings of neurochemical, functional and structural cerebral consequences of early stressful childhood experiences point out a need for active, early and effective identification and treatment interventions. We present an update on assessment tools available in the Nordic countries, and an overview of different appropriate therapeutic intervention models for children and adolescents. A systematic overview of studies of dissociation in children and adolescent published over the last decade disclosed a total of 1019 references. The 465 papers describing aspects of assessment tools and/or treatment were studied in detail. Reliable and valid screening questionnaires and diagnostic interviews for children and adolescents now allow for effective early identification of dissociative disorders. A combination of individual psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy and family therapy are often required to handle dissociative disorders in children and adolescents. Cognitive-behavioural therapy, hypnotherapy, Eye-Movement Desensitization-Reprocessing (EMDR), psychodynamic therapy and an integrated approach are the main described psychotherapeutic approaches, but treatment of dissociation in children and adolescent does not require allegiance to any one particular treatment model. However, achievement of physical safety by providing a safe environment is a primary goal that supersedes any other therapeutic work. Assessments tools are now available, and appropriate therapeutic intervention models may hopefully contribute to reduce the risk of wrong diagnoses and inappropriate treatment of dissociative symptomatology in children and adolescents. However, controlled clinical trials of the various interventions and longitudinal outcome studies are needed.

• Faugli, Anne; Aamodt, Geir; Bjørnland, Kristin; Emblem, Ragnhild & Diseth, Trond H (2005). Assessment of early mother-child relation in infants with oesophageal atresia. Nordic Journal of Psychiatry. ISSN 0803-9488. 49(6), p. 498–503. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Fifteen one-year old infants with oesophageal atresia and their parents were used to demonstrate how the Parent-Child Early Relational Assessment (PCERA) can be used to explore the mother-child interaction in a clinical sample of children. The infants and their mothers were videotaped for 5-min episodes during feeding and free play, and the quality of the mother-infant interactions was assessed by PCERA. The results showed areas of strength regarding most of the maternal, infant and dyadic components. There was concern about maternal positive physical contact, maternal quality of verbalizations to or about the child, maternal social initiative, infant's communicative competence and infant's visual contact with mother. This concern of social proximity between infants and their mothers was most prominent in the feeding situation. The present study indicates that oesophageal atresia in infants may constitute stressors impinging on the parent-infant relationship. PCERA was found to be an adequate assessment tool with acceptable reliability to evaluate the mother-infant interaction

• Diseth, Trond H & Vandvik, Inger Helene (2004). Hypnoterapi ved behandlingsrefraktær enuresis nocturna. Tidsskrift for Den norske legeforening (Tidsskriftet). ISSN 0029-2001. 124, p. 488–491. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Bakgrunn. Vi ønsket å vurdere nytten av hypnoterapi i behandling av behandlingsrefraktær enuresis nocturna. Materiale. 12 gutter, median alder 12 år (spredning 8 - 16 år), åtte med primær enuresis nocturna og fire med primær enuresis nocturna og diurna, rapporterte ved henvisningstidspunkt median 0 tørre netter (spredning 0 - 3 tørre netter) per uke. Alle hadde en familiær forekomst og hadde brukt alarmmatte og desmopressin, mens 50 % hadde brukt imipramin. Åtte hadde vært henvist til pedagogisk-psykologisk tjeneste (PPT) og/eller barne- og ungdomspsykiatrisk poliklinikk (BUP) for behandling. Metode. Alle var bredt somatisk utredet av pediater, barnekirurg eller urolog før hypnoterapi ble igangsatt. Etter en forberedende samtale med vurdering av motivasjon gjennomgikk pasientene hypnoterapi over median seks ganger (spredning 2 - 8 ganger) i tillegg til median en måneds påfølgende utprøvning av selvhypnose. Resultater. Tre måneder etter avsluttet behandling hadde ni av 12 pasienter oppnådd 6 - 7/7 tørre netter, og ved ett års oppfølging 7/7 tørre netter per uke. Av de tre med enuresis etter tre måneder, ble to henvist til barnekirurgisk vurdering pga. hyperaktiv blære, og en henvist til lokal BUP poliklinikk pga. foreldrekonflikt. Fortolkning. Hypnoterapi kan ha en rask og varig effekt hos gutter med kroniske og sammensatte former for enuresis nocturna. Hypnoterapi bør integreres i retningslinjer for behandlingsopplegg ved enuresis

• Capjon, Hilde; Diseth, Trond H & Skjeldal, Ola (2004). Habiliteringsopphold i varmt klima for barn med Cerebral Parese - foreldre og barnas opplevelse av deltakelse og mestring. Fysioterapeuten. ISSN 0016-3384. 12, p. 22–27. Full text in Research Archive
• Aksnes, Gunnar; Diseth, Trond H; Helseth, Are; Edvin, Bjørn; Stange, Marianne & Aafos, Gabrielle [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2002). Appendicostomy for antegrade enema: effects on somatic and psychosocial functioning in children with meningomyelocel. Pediatrics. ISSN 0031-4005. 109, p. 484–489. Full text in Research Archive
• Blomhoff, Svein; Diseth, Trond H; Jacobsen, M.B. & Vatn, Morten H (2002). Irritabelt tarmsyndrom-en multifaktoriell sykdom hos barn og voksne. Tidsskrift for Den norske legeforening (Tidsskriftet). ISSN 0029-2001. 122(12), p. 1213–1217. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Irritable bowel syndrome is the most frequent gastrointestinal disorder in Norway. Though there has been huge research activity in the field, no proven single aetiology or effective treatment has emerged. Consensus-based clinical diagnostic criteria have not yet brought diagnostic clarity. Possibly, there are dysfunctions in the processing of sensory stimuli in the "brain-gut" axis that may cause visceral hypersensitivity and secondary motility changes. In some patients, a multifactorial explanation of the mechanisms is useful, including stressful life events or other psychological factors. Psychiatric co-morbidity is probably the most important maintaining factor. Irritable bowel syndrome may serve as a model for the study of the interaction between biological, psychological and social factors in functional disorders. A good therapeutic relationship between the physician and the patient is an important element in the treatment approach

• Strømholm, Per & Diseth, Trond H (2000). Prevalence of psychiatric diagnoses in children with mental retardation: data from a population-based study. Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology. ISSN 0012-1622. 42, p. 266–270. Full text in Research Archive
• Diseth, Trond H; Emblem, Ragnhild & Schultz, Alexander (1999). Mental health, psychosocial functioning and quality of life in patients with bladder exstrophy and epispadias - An overview. World Journal of Urology. ISSN 0724-4983. 17, p. 239–248. Full text in Research Archive
• Aasland, Astrid & Diseth, Trond H (1999). Can the Harter Self-Perception Profile for adolescents (SPPA) be used as an indicator of psychosocial outcome in adolescents with chronic physical disrders? European Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. ISSN 1018-8827. 8, p. 78–85. Full text in Research Archive

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• Boye, Birgitte; Abrahamsen, Cathrine; Helgeland, Helene; Kristiansen, Hege; Diseth, Trond Haaken & Elgen, Irene Bircow [Show all 8 contributors for this article] (2026). Jan Christian Vestre, Helse Midt-Norge | Jan Christian Vestre: Leger krever krafttak mot funksjonelle lidelser. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Én av tre pasienter ved norske sykehus lider av plager leger ikke finner ut av. Samfunnskostnadene er enorme.

• Helgeland, Helene; Boye, Turid Birgitte; Kristiansen, Hege; TANGEN, MARTE KVITTUM; HØIFØDT, HEIDI SVANØE HAFSTAD & Herner, Linn Breen [Show all 9 contributors for this article] (2025). Pasienter med funksjonelle lidelser trenger et bedre behandlingstilbud. doi: 10.4045/tidsskr.24.0567. Full text in Research Archive
• Nyquist, Cecilie Bjertness; Torgersen, Leila; Davidsen, Linda; Diseth, Trond Haaken; Magnus, Per Minor & Biele, Guido [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2025). Reply to letter of concerns from Banos et al. European Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. ISSN 1018-8827. doi: 10.1007/s00787-025-02690-0. Full text in Research Archive
• Eide, Ingelill Susann Berger; Diseth, Trond Haaken; Enge, Kaja Elise Åslid & Trondalen, Gro (2022). Moderator: Profesjonsutvikling. Full text in Research Archive
• Larsen, Selma Mujezinovic; Terjesen, Terje; Jahnsen, Reidun Birgitta; Diseth, Trond Haaken & Ramstad, Kjersti (2022). Health-related quality of life in adolescents with cerebral palsy; a cross-sectional and longitudinal population-based study. Full text in Research Archive
• Helgeland, Helene; Lindheim, Maren Østvold; Diseth, Trond Haaken & Brodal, Per (2021). Klinisk hypnose - en revitalisering av legekunsten. 7. doi: 10.4045/tidsskr.21.0098. Full text in Research Archive
• Lindheim, Maren Østvold; Johnsen, Svein Åge Kjøs; Hauge, Åshild Lappegard & Diseth, Trond H (2020). Friluftssykehuset. doi: 10.4045/tidsskr.20.0409. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Naturopplevelser kan virke regulerende på kroppen. Den arkitektoniske utformingen og beliggenheten til Friluftssykehuset ved Oslo universitetssykehus gir et spesielt terapeutisk rom.

• Diseth, Trond H; Bøen, Erlend & Malt, Eva (2019). Psykosomatikk og nevropsykiatri. In Helseth, Eirik; Rootwelt, Terje & Harbo, Hanne Flinstad (Ed.), Nevrologi og nevrokirurgi ; fra barn til voksen. Fagbokforlaget. ISSN 9788245024739. p. 169–180. Full text in Research Archive
• Smeland, Anja Hetland; Twycross, Alison; Lundeberg, Stefan; Reinertsen, Hanne; Nybro, Lill & Næss, Torgun [Show all 9 contributors for this article] (2017). Pediatric Postoperative Pain Management. Children`s views about pain after surgery: A qualitative study. Full text in Research Archive
• Bjørndal, Arild; Diseth, Trond H & Holte, Arne (2016). Varsko om skolestress. VG : Verdens gang. ISSN 0805-5203. Full text in Research Archive
• Bjørndal, Arild; Diseth, Trond H & Holte, Arne (2016). Varsko om skolestress. Tilbeste.no. Full text in Research Archive
• Reinfjell, Trude; lofsstad, G.E.; Eilertsen, Mary-Elizabeth Bradley; Diseth, Trond H & Hestad, Knut (2015). Neuropsychological outcome in children and adolescents treated for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia with chemotherapy only. Full text in Research Archive
• Eilertsen, Mary-Elizabeth Bradley; Reinfjell, Trude; Hjemdal, Odin; Le, thien Thanh & Diseth, Trond H (2015). Resilience and mental health in parents of children surviving Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia. Full text in Research Archive
• Diseth, Trond H & Malt, Eva (2014). Psykosomatikk og nevrologi, Nevrologi og nevrokirurgi fra barn til voksen, 6.utgave. Forlaget Vett & Viten AS. ISSN 9788241207099. p. 235–245. Full text in Research Archive
• Diseth, Trond H (2014). Kronisk somatisk sykdom og symptomatologi hos barn og unge, Psykiske reaksjoner ved somatisk sykdom. Cappelen Damm Akademisk. ISSN 9788202418786. p. 674–694. Full text in Research Archive
• Dyb, Grete; Jensen, Tine Kristin; Nygaard, Egil; Ekeberg, Øyvind; Diseth, Trond H & Thoresen, Siri (2013). Post-traumatic stress reactions (PTSR) in survivors from a terror attack in Norway: Exploring the meaning of gender, age, traumatic exposure and social support in an unselected and highly exposed group. Full text in Research Archive
• Haveraaen, Sissel Berg & Diseth, Trond H (2012). Stønad ved barns sykdom - mer besvær enn støtte? Tidsskrift for Den norske legeforening (Tidsskriftet). ISSN 0029-2001. 132(14), p. 1633–1636. doi: 10.4045/tidsskr.12.0714. Full text in Research Archive
• Ekeberg, Øivind; Bjartveit, M; Diseth, Trond H; Eide, E; Skogstad, Laila & Small, T (2012). Psychosocial interventions in a University hospital after the act of terror in Oslo 22 July 2011. Journal of Psychosomatic Research. ISSN 0022-3999. 72(6), p. 477–477. Full text in Research Archive
• Reinfjell, Trude; Lofstad, Grete Elisabeth; Eilertsen, Mary-Elizabeth & Diseth, Trond H (2010). CHILDREN IN REMISSION FROM ACUTE LYMPHOBLASTIC LEUKAEMIA: MENTAL HEALTH AND PSYCHOSOCIAL ADJUSTMENT. Pediatric Blood & Cancer. ISSN 1545-5009. 55(5), p. 968–968. Full text in Research Archive
• Reinfjell, Trude; Eilertsen, Mary-Elizabeth Bradley; Hestad, Knut & Diseth, Trond H (2010). Cognitive outcome in children and adolescents in long-term remission from Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia and treated with chemotherapy. Full text in Research Archive
• Diseth, Trond H; Haraldsen, Ira Hebold; Schreiner, Thomas & Tønseth, Kim Aleksander (2010). Udokumenterte påstander om GID-klinikken. Tidsskrift for Den norske legeforening (Tidsskriftet). ISSN 0029-2001. 130(10), p. 1014–1014. Full text in Research Archive
• Faugli, Anne; Bjørnland, Kristin; Skreden, Marianne; Skari, Hans; Björk, Merethe Dalholt & Emblem, Ragnhild [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2006). Comparison of parental psychological distress among children diagnosed with surgical congenital malformations and children in the general population. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Faugli, A., Bjørnland, K., Skreden, M., Skari, H., Emblem, R., Diseth, T.H. Anne Faugli, M.D., The National Hospital/University of Oslo, N-0027 Oslo, Norway anne.faugli@medisin.uio.no COMPARISON OF PARENT PSYCHOLOGICAL DISTRESS AMONG CHILDREN DIAGNOSED WITH SURGICAL CONGENITAL MALFORMATIONS AND CHILDREN IN THE GENERAL POPULATION Background: The birth of an infant with a congenital anomaly is a stressful and emotionally demanding experience for parents. Parenting stress is an important factor influencing parenting behavior and parent-child interaction. This kind of stress may arise from child, parent, and environmental characteristics. Little is known about parental stress around and after the birth of a baby with a surgical anomaly. Aim of the study: To assess psychological stress in parents of one year old children with a severe congenital malformation and parents of children with minor congenital malformations compared to psychological stress in parents of children in the general population. Material and methods: As part of a prospective, longitudinal follow up study of children with esophageal atresia we assessed psychological stress in their parents. 18 one year old children with esophageal atresia, 10 children matched on age and gender with minor urological problems, and 100 1-2 year old children in the general population and their parents were included. The study was a cross-sectional questionnaire study. Standardized psychometric self report instruments (GHQ 30, STAI-X1 and SPSQ) were used, assessing depression, anxiety and parenting stress. Child medical data were registered from medical reports. Results: Multidimensional outcome variables will be tested, searching for predictors of parent stress among children with surgical congenital anomalies and normal children. The results will be presented.

• Faugli, Anne; Bjørnland, Kristin; Veenstra, Marijke; Emblem, Ragnhild & Diseth, Trond H (2006). Relational patterns and predictors of maternal anxiety and sensitivity among infants with esophageal atresia. Full text in Research Archive
• Faugli, Anne; Bjørnland, Kristin; Aamodt, Geir; Emblem, Ragnhild & Diseth, Trond H (2006). The impact of medical illness and invasive treatment procedures on early parent-child interaction assessed by PCERA and CARE-Index. Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  THE IMPACT OF MEDICAL ILLNESS AND INVASIVE TREATMENT PROCEDURES ON EARLY PARENT-CHILD INTERACTION ASSESSED BY PCERA AND CARE-INDEX Faugli A., Bjørnland K., Aamodt, G., Emblem R., Diseth, T.H. A serious medical illness that occurs during infancy creates adversities in the infant and represents emotional responses by parents, being challenging to the parent-child interaction. It is essential to use a reliable and valid standardized instrument as PCERA and CARE-index in assessing this parent-child relationship. Esophageal atresia (EA) is a congenital anomaly requiring neonatal surgery. Typical symptoms are frothing and bubbling of saliva, coughing, and respiratory distress. Feeding exacerbate these symptoms. Invasive procedures may be necessary to prevent nutritional problems. Little is known about long-term psychosocial function of children with EA, and the emotional response the parent brings into the parent child interaction and relationship. Aim of the study was to compare the parent-child interaction in infants with EA with infants with minor urological diseases submitted to the surgical ward using CARE-index and PCERA. The sample consists of 39 one year old infants with EA born in 1999-2003, and their mothers and fathers. The comparison group consists of 10 infants healthy at birth, submitted at the surgery unit, matched for age and gender, and their parents. GHQ and STAI assessing parent well being, depression and anxiety were used. Registration of medical data was done prospectively from first admission. The dyadic profiles of the two groups on the CARE-index will be compared with those on the PCERA.

• Refsum, Sigvald B; Gudmundsson, Kolbeinn & Diseth, Trond H (2003). Ble det gutt eller pike? Full text in Research Archive Show summary

  Sigvald Refsum, Kolbeinn Gudmundsson og Trond H. Diseth, alle tilknyttet Barnekirurgisk seksjon, ble tildelt vårens stabsmøtepris for foredraget "Ble det gutt eller pike?" Øyvind Skraastad begrunner tildelingen slik: � Et meget godt foredrag som illustrerer behovet for tverrfaglighet og som viser Rikshospitalets kompetanse innen en komplisert pasientgruppe.

• Diseth, Trond H (2001). Hyperaktivitet sett innenfra. Tidsskrift for Den norske legeforening (Tidsskriftet). ISSN 0029-2001. 121, p. 855–856. Full text in Research Archive
• Aksnes, Gunnar; Helseth, Are; Edvin, Bjørn; Stange, Marianne; Diseth, Trond H & Aafos, Gabrielle [Show all 7 contributors for this article] (2000). Appendicostomy for antegrade enema in children with meningomyelocele. Full text in Research Archive

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