The aims of this study were to identify the different ways in which atopic dermatitis (AD) impacts on family function; to make a preliminary assessment of the perceived importance of these attributes and to design a structured questionnaire for future research use. 34 families of children with moderate to severe AD (N = 35, 18 M, 17 F, age range 6 mths-11 yrs) were studied. 74% of the families had problems with practical care issues, 71% suffered psychological pressures and 66% had a restriction of lifestyle. Sleep patterns were disturbed in 63%. Other problems highlighted were difficulties with the child's behaviour (54%), family relationships (29%) and restriction of holidays (23%). A questionnaire was constructed and piloted on 52 families with a return rate of 76%. The 3 issues rated most important by the parents were the child's ability to cope with their disease, practical care issues and satisfactory family relationships.Supported by a grant from the National Eczema Society.