Strangers will often make unwanted and unkind comments about the appearance of a child. Beyond color, a child's eyes may be moving rapidly and not focusing together. The child may have to squint, tilt his or her head, and hold things close in order to see. Contact lenses, glasses, and optical aids are used to enhance vision. Thus the child with albinism often feels isolated not only in physical appearance but also in the conduct of everyday life.
Pressure comes from within and without to minimize the differences caused by albinism.
This effort can result in a great deal of stress for a person continually trying to maximize visual ability. It can result in denying altogether that one has albinism and losing touch with a very important part of one's self. In the early years and throughout life, family and close friends can counter this isolation and denial. Being prized and valued as a whole person is the foundation for a lifetime of self-esteem and inner strength. This prizing must include an honest acknowledgement and acceptance of the condition of albinism.