Experiences of psychosocial adjustment within 18 months of amputation: an interpretative phenomenological analysis

Abstract

Purpose. To explore participants' experiences of psychosocial adjustment within 18-months following amputation in a manner that can inform further research and clinical practice.

Method. Transcript data from eight semi-structured interviews were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis.

Results. Three super-ordinate themes emerged from the analysis: (1) pre-amputation decision-making process and control, (2) renegotiation of self-identity and the struggle to accept a new ‘disabled’ identity, and (3) adjustment as a social process.

Conclusion. This research furthers understanding of pre-acute, acute and post-acute adjustment processes from the insider-perspective of individuals who have experienced amputation. A picture emerged in which individuals adjusted to amputation and its sequelae through a process of renegotiation of self-identity that was mediated through a wide range of decisional, informational and social factors. Suggestions for clinical practice and further research are discussed.

Keywords:

• Amputation
• psychosocial adjustment
• interpretative phenomenological analysis

Acknowledgements

The authors wish to thank Mr. Roger Parke, Dr. Colin Wilson, Dr. Martin Dempster and Dr. Jennifer Shepherd for their advice and support during this research process.