Skin disease can have a significant impact on the quality of life of not only the patients but also thier family members.The research described in this thesis investigates the hidden impact of skin diseases on the psychological, physical and social functioning of the immediate family members or partners of patients. A method is also described to measure quantitatively this secondary impact of skin diseases on family members. It is hoped that use of this instrument, in conjunction with other patient- completed instruments and objective clinical parameters, will aid those working in evaluation research and clinicians in their patients' management decisions and aid in the development of new strategies to address this under-emphasised impact of skin diseases.