Factors of resilience among physically disabled: An interpretative phenomenological analysis

Pages:113-118
Lisha Sivadasan and Annalakshmi Narayanan (Department of Psychology, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore)

The present study focuses on exploring means to further the well-being of physically disabled adults by identifying the protective factors contributing to resilience among the resilient. Interpretative phenomenological analysis is used as a framework for analyzing the qualitative research data in this study. The sample included six adults with locomotor disability identified as resilient. The results reveal the factors of developmental adaptation and the traits contributing to resilience. It is found that social interest (including social responsibility), assertiveness, transcendence (including spirituality, optimism, and temperance), family support, and interpersonal relationship serve as protective factors contributing to resilience among adults with locomotor disability. The present study has implication for designing and delivering intervention for prevention and promotion of psychological resilience among disabled individuals.