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Wheelchair mountaineering.
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
|August 1, 1984
Summary
Wheelchair mountaineering can enhance self-efficacy and rehabilitation for individuals with spinal cord injuries. This challenging activity fosters personal mastery, boosting self-esteem and competence in wheelchair users.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Sports Science
- Psychology
Background:
- Wilderness survival training enhances self-esteem and leadership in able-bodied individuals.
- Wheelchair sports are recognized for their importance in spinal cord injury (SCI) rehabilitation.
Observation:
- A paraplegic man and two other wheelchair users successfully climbed an 8751-foot mountain.
- The expedition involved significant physical and logistical challenges inherent in mountaineering for wheelchair users.
Findings:
- The personal-mastery accomplishment of climbing the mountain strongly supported the theory of self-efficacy.
- Participants reported increased self-esteem, competence, and self-assertion post-achievement.
Implications:
- Wheelchair mountaineering offers a novel and potent avenue for long-term physical and emotional rehabilitation.
- This activity can be a valuable therapeutic tool for selected individuals with SCI, promoting significant personal growth.