Changes in spiritual beliefs after traumatic disability

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Psychology
• Disability Studies
• Qualitative Research Methods

Background:

• Sudden-onset disabilities significantly alter an individual's life trajectory.
• Spirituality plays a crucial role in coping and adjustment following major life changes.
• Understanding the impact of disability on spiritual concepts is vital for holistic care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the effects of sudden-onset disability on individuals' spiritual concepts.
• To identify changes in spirituality post-disability, focusing on intrapersonal, interpersonal, and transpersonal relationships.
• To develop a theoretical framework for understanding disability and spirituality.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative, cross-sectional study design.
• In-depth, semistructured interviews with 16 participants with spinal cord or brain injuries.
• Exploration of spiritual changes related to self, others, the world, and a supreme power, within 2 years post-rehabilitation discharge.

Main Results:

• Participants reported increased self-awareness, a redefined sense of independence, and a newfound purpose in life.
• Greater awareness of mortality and vulnerability, alongside a transformed understanding of trust and interdependence.
• Enhanced appreciation for relationships, the world, and a deeper understanding of disadvantaged groups.

Conclusions:

• Individuals demonstrate a significant capacity for spiritual conceptualization post-disability.
• Reported spiritual changes suggest a positive role of spirituality in the adjustment process following disability onset.