A core assumption in most of the rehabilitation literature is that adjustment to disability results when the individual fully accepts his or her disability status. Other related assumptions include the salience of the disability label to the person's self-perception, and the usefulness of the label for identification of appropriate treatment modalities. However, some individuals who are diagnosed with a disability reject a disabled identity. Others may not be considered by others to have a disability, yet consider themselves to be disabled. It may be unwise to judge an individual's adjustment based on these responses to the attribution of disability. The complexities between self-perception, identity, labeling, and attribution deserve closer study.
Preliminary qualitative analyses reveal that the relationships between self-perception, acceptance of a disability attribution, and overall "adjustment" are not fully explained within the framework of existing theory. People with disabilities have complex relationships with their disability labels. This presentation reports on a qualitative study that examines these complex relationships. Based on focus groups and in depth interviews with approximately 30 adults with disability labels, the study examines the personal meaning and impact of disability and perception of disability. Individuals with both hidden (i.e., psychiatric or learning disabilities, or chronic illnesses) and apparent (i.e., physical or sensory) disabilities are included in the study.
Learning Objectives: 1. Identify the differences between the experiences of people with apparent and hidden disabilities. 2. Discuss how self-perception concerning disability impacts interpersonal and academic coping. 3. Distinguish between traditional views of adaptation and emerging theory
Keywords: Disability Studies, Self-sufficiency and Empowerment
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.