James S. Krause, PhD¹, Lynne E. Broderick, MPH², and Jennifer L. Coker, MPH¹. (1) College of Health Professions, Medical University of South Carolina, 19 Hagood Avenue, Suite 910, Charleston, SC 29425, (2) Crawford Research Institute, Shepherd Center, 2020 Peachtree Road, Atlanta, GA 30309, 404-367-1348, lynne_broderick@shepherd.org

The purpose of this study was to identify factors associated with maintenance of a healthy affect and avoidance of depressive symptomatology after spinal cord injury (SCI). In addition to controlling for demographic and injury factors, education, and income, three types of psychological constructs were the primary focus of investigation - locus of control, purpose in life, and personality. This cross sectional study was conducted at a rehabilitation hospital in the Southeastern United States. 1,923 potential participants were mailed study materials; 1,391 returned usable materials for a 72% response rate. The primary outcome measure was the Older Adult Health and Mood Questionnaire (OAHMQ). Logistic regression analysis was used to identify the association of the predictor variables with the two outcome variables (healthy affect and depression), each of which was ascertained from scores on the depression measure (i.e., OAHMQ). The results show that variations in both healthy affect and probable major depression were related to a pattern of biographic, injury, socioeconomic, and psychological factors. Psychological factors accounted for substantial increases in the number of cases correctly classified into outcome groups. In general, individuals who found more purpose in life, felt a sense of control, were active and social, and avoided unnecessary risks, aggression, and anxiety, reported healthier affect with decreased likelihood of probable major depression. Despite the high rates of clinical depression after SCI, the current study suggests that several psychological traits are associated with positive affect and may buffer individuals against the onset of clinical depression.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify patterns relating to healthy affect or major probable depression following spinal cord injury 2)Outline life factors associated with healthy affect following spinal cord injury
• Assist clients with spinal cord injury in protecting themselves from onset of clinical depression

Keywords: Disability, Depression

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.