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- Title
LIVING WITH PARAPLEGIA: Tensions and Contradictions.
- Authors
O'Connor, Deborah L.; Young, Jenny M.; Saul, Megan Johnston
- Abstract
Although it is well established that paraplegia results in dramatic lifestyle changes, little is understood about living in the community with paraplegia, especially from the perspective of the person 'with paraplegia. To develop insight into this experience, in-depth, personal interviews were conducted with seven individuals with paraplegia who had been living back in the community for less than two years. Qualitative analysis of their transcribed interviews suggests that the transitional process revolved around their struggle to reposition themselves in a holististic way that reflects the injury while moving beyond it. Four interrelated challenges textured the experience: maintaining an identity beyond the medical; contending with the stigma of difference; addressing the invisible work of day-to-day living; and balancing independence and dependence. Implications for practice are discussed.
- Subjects
PARAPLEGIA; LIFESTYLES; PEOPLE with disabilities; LEG diseases; PARALYSIS; COMMUNITIES
- Publication
Health & Social Work, 2004, Vol 29, Issue 3, p207
- ISSN
0360-7283
- Publication type
Article
- DOI
10.1093/hsw/29.3.207