The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #69078

Paul G Devereux, PhD¹, Charles C. Bullock, PhD¹, Brenda Gosser¹, and Mihalis Kyriakou². (1) Department of Health Ecology, University of Nevada, Mail Stop/274, Lombardi Building, Reno, NV 89557, (775) 784-4041 x-227, devereux@unr.edu, (2) Health Ecology, University of Nevada, MS 274, UNR, Reno, NV 89557

The objective of this presentation is to reveal information on social support among people with paralysis. Using a survey method, respondents were asked about both perceived and received support, including emotional, informational, and practical types of support. The goal was to identify whether specific types of support are lacking in adults with paralysis. Data were obtained from 70 participants in the U.S. using a mail questionnaire, telephone survey or web-based survey. There were no significant differences on study variables by response format. All scales demonstrated appropriate levels of internal consistency. About 60% of the sample identified themselves as experiencing paraplegia, and about 40% listed themselves as a person with quadriplegia. The sample had a mean age of 41 years, 85% were male, 95% Caucasian, and they reside in over 20 different states. Compared with emotional and practical support, people with paralysis reported that informational support was what they perceived to be least available should it be needed. This support includes being able to go to people for advice on personal, financial, or sexual problems. When listing the support actually received from others, informational support again was reported as the lowest support type, except for practical support items involving money loans.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify differences in types of support perceived and received by persons with paralysis

Keywords: Disability Studies, Psychological Indicators

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.