Examining the links between psychosocial problems and family and community-level functioning in adults with neurological disabilities
Abstract
Individuals with neurological disabilities are likely to encounter a number of psychosocial, educational, vocational, and interpersonal difficulties in coping with their medical condition. Although global factors, such as strained family and peer relations, have been associated with poor adaptation, we continue to lack basic information about how and under what conditions family and community factors influence the psychosocial, behavioral, and emotional functioning of adults with neurological disabilities. The current paper presents a problem-specific framework, the Family and Disability Assessment System (FDAS), which emphasizes the specific linkages between conditions operating in the family and community, and the concerns of individuals with neurological disabilities. The specific objectives of the current study were to determine: (a) the kinds of problems faced by both individuals with neurological disabilities and their families, (b) the relationship between types of problems and demographic/medical factors, (c) which problems are most severe for individuals with neurological disabilities and their families, (d) which members of the family system and significant others in the community are most concerned and involved in specific problems, and (e) the relationship between specific types of problems and specific family and community-level processes. Twenty-five adults with epilepsy (n = 15), head trauma with seizure disorder (n = 4), or multiple sclerosis (n = 6) and their families served as subjects for the study. Each family received a semi-structured assessment interview which was subsequently content analyzed. Results of the study revealed that relationship issues were the most common class of problems reported by persons with disabilities and their families followed by psychosocial concerns and medical issues. Relationships were also found between several demographic/medical variables and specific problem domains. Also identified were those members of the family system and significant others in the community involved in specific problems. Finally, a substantial relationship was found between the type of problem domain and the type of family and community-level interaction patterns. No relationship was found between specific problems and problem severity ratings, or between specific problems and family members/significant others most concerned with these problems. Reasons for the findings are proposed along with directions for future research.
Degree
Ph.D.
Advisors
Glueckauf, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Psychology|Psychotherapy|Social psychology
Off-Campus Purdue Users:
To access this dissertation, please log in to our
proxy server.