Regaining A Sense Of Me: a single case study of SCI adjustment, applying the appraisal model and coping effectiveness training

Spinal Cord Series and Cases, 2021 · DOI: 10.1038/s41394-020-00349-3 · Published: January 1, 2021

Simple Explanation

Spinal cord injuries (SCI) present significant physical and psychological challenges, impacting quality of life. This paper explores how understanding a person's assessment of their experience (appraisal) and their coping resources can help with adjustment after SCI. The study applies a coping effectiveness training (CET) approach within individual therapy to help a woman with SCI manage anxiety, PTSD, and mood disturbances. The goal of the therapy was to help the patient re-evaluate her appraisals, develop positive coping strategies, and redefine her sense of independence after experiencing a loss of identity.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Single case study of a 74-year-old woman with SCI

Evidence Level

Case Report

Key Findings

1
Psychological treatment, specifically CET, enabled resolution of post-trauma symptoms and promoted positive coping strategies after SCI.
2
The case study highlights the significant impact appraisals have on long-term rehabilitation outcomes.
3
The paper shows the necessity of a multi-disciplinary team (MDT) approach for optimal psychological and physical adjustment.

Research Summary

This case report details the psychological adjustment intervention provided to an inpatient during SCI rehabilitation with psychological formulation from Duff and Kennedy. CET was applied as direct individual treatment rather than in-group therapy, as previously published. Overall, working ﬂexibly by employing strategies from multiple psychological models and therapeutic approaches such as CET, CBT and BA enabled Theresa to adapt her self-world beliefs and thought processes (cognitions) around her injury, regain important elements of independence and control, reclaim activities in line with her values and identity, learn mood-management strategies to build resilience and maintain wellbeing, and develop a belief that SCI could be ‘manageable’

Practical Implications

Early Psychological Intervention

Early intervention addressing psychological health and adjustment impacts rehabilitation outcomes.

Importance of Addressing Trauma

Healthcare professionals should be aware of the potential for re-traumatization years after ICU admission and address it accordingly.

Community Education

Community education is needed to reduce negative perceptions of disability and promote inclusion.

Regaining A Sense Of Me: a single case study of SCI adjustment, applying the appraisal model and coping effectiveness training

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Early Psychological Intervention

Importance of Addressing Trauma

Community Education

Study Limitations

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Was this summary helpful?

Regaining A Sense Of Me: a single case study of SCI adjustment, applying the appraisal model and coping effectiveness training

Simple Explanation

Key Findings

Research Summary

Practical Implications

Early Psychological Intervention

Importance of Addressing Trauma

Community Education

Study Limitations

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?