The pattern of coping in persons with spinal cord injuries

Purpose : To examine the modes of coping and adjustment of persons with spi nal 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 psy chosocial morbidity. Results/Conclusion : The group at risk for developing psychological difficu lties is characterized by high scores on external locus of control, inadequ ate coping modes, and low perceived social support. High levels of depressi on, social role dissatisfaction, care-giving burden, low levels of life sat isfaction, and marital maladjustment are commonly noted. Rehabilitation of persons with SCI should also aim at promoting perceived personal control, a cceptance of physical status, and realistic appraisal of stressful situatio ns to facilitate better adjustment and coping with commonly identified stre sses and difficulties. Counselling should be initiated at an early stage to reduce the development of distorted perceptions so that the needs and conc erns of individuals with SCI may be better met and resolved. The frustratio ns due to unmet expectations may be prevented at an early stage through bui ld-up of more realistic understandings related to the illness and living wi th the illness.