Paul G Devereux, PhD, Charles C. Bullock, PhD, Jessey Bargmann, and Mihalis Kyriakou. Department of Health Ecology, University of Nevada, Mail Stop/274, Lombardi Building, Reno, NV 89557, (775) 784-4041 x-227, devereux@unr.edu

Social support has been identified as a protective factor for health and well being, yet according to Healthy People 2010 persons with paralysis report lower levels of support compared to persons without paralysis. It is therefore important that researchers examine the factors that promote social support in persons with paralysis. Utilizing a risk and resilience framework, the goal of this research is to identify individuals who demonstrate high levels of social support and determine what has made them successful. This information can then be used for interventions and to disseminate information to potentially improve support for all people with paralysis. Study respondents were randomly selected from a survey sample of 299 adults living in the U.S. and experiencing some form of paralysis. Respondents who scored at least one standard deviation above the mean on perceived availability of support were eligible for the study. Thirty-five people met this criterion; five did not consent to be contacted for the follow-up interview or did not provide contact information, and 13 could not be reached, leaving 17 who completed the in-depth interview. Respondents were of both genders and ranged in age from 29 to 72. Employing a qualitative research analysis strategy, major themes identified by respondents for maintaining high levels of social support included: being as independent as possible, maintaining a positive outlook, reciprocating support and providing for others. Although mentioned, respondents with high levels of support minimized barriers or other obstacles faced, and instead focused on how they could positively impact their environment.

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