The pattern of coping in persons with spinal cord injuries

Abstract

Purpose: To examine the modes of coping and adjustment of persons with spinal cord injuries (SCI) in Hong Kong. Method: A cross-sectional design was adopted. Structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews on 66 persons with SCI were completed. Cluster analysis was performed to identify persons with SCI who are at risk for psychosocial morbidity. Results/Conclusion: The group at risk for developing psychological difficulties is characterized by high scores on external locus of control, inadequate coping modes, and low perceived social support. High levels of depression, social role dissatisfaction, care-giving burden, low levels of life satisfaction, and marital maladjustment are commonly noted. Rehabilitation of persons with SCI should also aim at promoting perceived personal control, acceptance of physical status, and realistic appraisal of stressful situations to facilitate better adjustment and coping with commonly identified stresses and difficulties. Counselling should be initiated at an early stage to reduce the development of distorted perceptions so that the needs and concerns of individuals with SCI may be better met and resolved. The frustrations due to unmet expectations may be prevented at an early stage through build-up of more realistic understandings related to the illness and living with the illness.