Analysis of the Coping Process among Visually Impaired Individuals, Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA)

Abstract

There is a lack of research based on in-depth theoretical and scientific knowledge to understand the visually impaired, and there has been little effort in the application of strategies for early intervention to minimize the risk these people might encounter during development. This study used semi-structured interviews from eight persons with visual impairments who had various experiences of coping process. Three coping processes based on life experiences were identified: (1) self-awareness and adaptation process: “self-awareness of disability” and “adaptation to disability and the environment”; (2) facing the circumstance process: “the exposure to concealment and abuse,” “the suppression of potential,” “denial and abandonment by family,” “poverty and disability,” “expansion of thinking,” and “opportunities of special participation”; and (3) the positive reinforcement process: “self-disclosure and jump-starting life,” “maintain satisfaction and achievement,” and “socioeconomic independence.” These findings expand the understanding of the factors common to the coping process experienced by individuals with visual impairment and highlight the importance of psychological support, family, education, and social support.