Benefit-finding among young adults with spina bifida

Abstract

The purpose of the current study was to examine benefit-finding in a sample of young adults with SB and assess relationships between demographic and medical variables and benefit-finding. Young adults with SB ( N = 329), ranging in age from 18 to 30 ( M = 23.44 ± 2.93), completed the Benefit-Finding Scale (BFS), a 17-item self-report questionnaire, and reported on demographic and medical information related to their SB diagnosis. Participants endorsed a range of benefits associated with living with SB. The most frequently endorsed benefits were related to personal strengths, interpersonal relationships, and life philosophy. Younger age, majority race, higher education level, and employment were significantly associated with higher BFS scores. Young adults with SB report benefits associated with their chronic condition. Future research should examine these benefits in relation to psychosocial outcomes.