Identity Negotiation and Reconstruction Following a Spinal Cord Injury: A Meta-Synthesis of Qualitative Evidence

Abstract

<h3>Objective(s)</h3> To identify and synthesize qualitative evidence on individuals' subjective experiences of identity following a spinal cord injury (SCI). <h3>Data Sources</h3> PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, and PsycInfo were searched from 1980 to 2021. Selected systematic reviews and book chapters were also searched for additional articles. <h3>Study Selection</h3> Eligible studies examined identity-related experiences in adults with SCI utilizing qualitative or mixed-methods. Only studies published in English, including first-person accounts of living with a SCI were included. A total of 541 articles were screened by title and abstract, of those 68 were read in full for which 20 studies that met inclusion criteria. <h3>Data Extraction</h3> Using qualitative thematic synthesis methodology (Braun & Clarke, 2006), data (reported results) from each selected study were coded line-by-line to develop descriptive and analytical themes by two investigators. Characteristics of the studies and demographic information of the participants were also extracted. <h3>Data Synthesis</h3> Five overarching themes were identified: 1) constructing and negotiating the disability identity, 2) navigating the psychosocial sphere in an able-bodied world, 3) taking on and managing various roles following SCI. 4) impact of hospitalization and rehabilitation on personal identity post SCI, and 5) sexual identity post SCI. Participants discussed how they incorporated disability into their new identity and the role of support network and the broader social environment in shaping this process. <h3>Conclusions</h3> Findings shed light on the multifaceted nature of identity following SCI and the complexity of the identity reconstruction process. For health professionals looking to facilitate identity reconstruction in individuals post SCI, the findings highlight the importance of employing person-centred approaches in clinical practice and the value of involving family members and peers in rehabilitation settings. <h3>Author(s) Disclosures</h3> The authors have no conflicts to disclose.