Some Correlates of Adjustment by Paraplegics

Abstract

This study investigated some correlates of adjustment to paraplegia, a physically immobilizing disability, which involves a number of frustrating, lifetime handicaps—such as the loss of the ability to walk, to feel sensation, to procreate, and the control of bowel and bladder function. From the results, it appears that the patient who was better able to adjust to a physically immobilizing handicap, was one who was better able to function in society prior to his disability, as indicated by his relatively higher educational and occupational attainments. Such a patient also was motivated by more theoretic-type interests than was the patient who adjusted less well to his disability.