How do family members of individuals with spinal cord and acquired brain injuries make sense of their experiences: A qualitative study of meaning making processes

Health Psychology Open, 2020 · DOI: 10.1177/2055102920913477 · Published: January 1, 2020

Mental Health Rehabilitation Research Methodology & Design

Simple Explanation

This study explores how family members of individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI) and acquired brain injuries (ABI) cope with major life changes after the injury, focusing on how they find meaning in their experiences. The research uses the concept of 'meaning making' to understand how family members make sense of life events, relationships, and themselves after a loved one's injury. The study found that family members use various coping strategies, such as staying positive and engaging in meaningful activities, while also balancing their own needs with the needs of the injured family member.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

10 family members in two focus groups

Evidence Level

Qualitative study

Key Findings

1
Family members employ different coping strategies, including downplaying the consequences of the injury, maintaining a positive outlook, and comparing their situation to worse-case scenarios.
2
Balancing family needs with personal autonomy is a crucial aspect of adjustment, requiring family members to make room for their own needs and seek motivation through relationships.
3
The need for professional assistance can be upsetting, and family members often weigh the benefits against concerns about privacy, control, and interference with family routines.

Research Summary

This study investigates how family members of individuals with SCI and ABI make sense of their experiences and adjust to altered life situations in the chronic phase after injury, using the concept of meaning making. The study identifies two main themes: drawing upon different coping strategies (such as maintaining a positive outlook) and balancing family needs against personal autonomy (making room for one's own needs). The findings suggest that life can continue in a good manner after adversities, but requires flexibility and adjustments, highlighting the importance of healthcare professionals providing hope and encouragement to families during the acute and post-acute phases.

Practical Implications

Clinical Practice

Healthcare professionals should recognize the importance of meaning making in the adjustment process for family members and provide support to facilitate this process.

Family Support Programs

Develop interventions that address the need for balance between family needs and personal autonomy, as well as strategies for coping with the challenges of caregiving.

Further Research

Longitudinal studies are needed to understand how meaning making and resilience evolve over time in families affected by SCI and ABI.

Study Limitations

1
The study has a limited number of participants, which may affect the generalizability of the findings.
2
The study only reflects the family members’ perceptions of family life after an injury, without including the perspectives of the injured persons themselves.
3
The cross-sectional design limits the ability to understand how meaning making and resilience change over time.

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