Self-Identity in an Adolescent a Decade after Spinal Cord Injury

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this mixed methods case study was to describe the current self-identity of an adolescent a decade after spinal cord injury and how he recalls his rehabilitative journey through recovery. The instruments included three in-depth interviews, administration of the Lin Interest Check List, the Stress Profile, and the Tennessee Self Concept Scale: 2. An association between participation in meaningful occupations and regaining self-identity was articulated. Results revealed above average self-concept and adequate coping skills with high use of positive appraisal. Higher scores in family and social self-concept validate his strong reliance on spirituality and his local church as a support system. In contrast, this client also scored above average on negative appraisal and on self-criticism. Implications for improved practice for occupational therapists and other rehabilitation science professionals are discussed.

KEYWORDS. :

• Occupation
• disability
• self-concept
• self-identity