Citation

Erickson DV. Int. J. Child. Spiritual. 2008; 13(3): 287-296.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2008, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This article focuses on loss, recovery and spiritual dimensions of trauma in spinal cord injury (SCI) during adolescence. From a clinical perspective, while there are physical characteristics in common with congenital childhood disabilities such as spina bifida, life adjustment issues associated with acquired disabilities can be quite different, and may have lower reported life satisfaction. There is little information about adolescents who have experienced SCI and the role of spirituality in the rehabilitation process. To explore that relationship further, this article uses a case study approach of a 15-year-old female adolescent who had acquired a SCI in a motor vehicle accident that claimed the lives of her mother and grandparents. Her story was gathered through several interviews and was examined in terms of her spiritual perspectives. The purpose is to present implications, informed by other adolescents as well, that help family, health-care providers and other adults, especially teachers, to understand her needs.

Language: en