The role of hope in the coping process following spinal cord injury

Abstract

Background: Research highlights the positive associations between hope and psychological and physical well in challenging health situations. Specifically contemporary coping literature acknowledges the importance of hope both in the recovery and coping process. However the role of hope is not well understood or researched. Purpose: This paper will present both theoretical and clinical aspects of the role of hope in the coping process related to adjustment following spinal cord injury. The paper will firstly describe and review the current theoretical perspectives on the role of hope in the coping process. The second part of the paper will present qualitative data about the role of hope from the perspective of the person with spinal cord injury. Method: This data was collected as part of a ten year longitudinal year study of an Australian sample of 46 people who sustained spinal cord injury. Respondents were interviewed at discharge from hospital 6, 12, 24 , 36, months post discharge and again at ten years post discharge. The interviews a semi structured qualitative interview focusing on the adjustment process. Results: It was found that 73% of the participants identified hope as an essential factor that helped them following their injury. Three main foci of their hope emerged from the data set: 1.Hope for a full and complete recovery 2.Hope for a cure for spinal cord injury 3.Hope for a future life that was satisfying. For many hope continued to be important in helping them cope with the long-term consequences of their injuries. There is some evidence from this study that the role and focus of hope in adjustment may change over time. Conclusion: The respondents clearly identified the importance of hope in the overall adjustment and coping process. Clinical implications for working with people who sustain spinal cord injury are discussed and it is recommended that interventions which support and facilitate hope need to be developed and studied.