Purpose: Research shows the potential for post-traumatic growth (PTG) following spinal cord injury (SCI). Growing evidence demonstrates the role of social processes in PTG development. However, the mechanisms through which social processes might influence PTG are not well established. The review aimed to synthesise current research to provide insights into social processes involved in PTG development following SCI.
Methods: Searches were conducted using the following databases: PsycINFO, MEDLINE, Scopus, Citation Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Web of Science, and EMBASE. Nine studies were included. Studies were quality assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist. Data synthesis utilised a meta-ethnographic approach.
Results: Four themes were generated: Sense of Self and Identity; Close Relationships as Enablers of Growth; Connecting with the Peer Community; and Reintegrating into Society. Identity reconstruction was found to be a central pathway in PTG. Close relationships and peers played a multi-faceted role in enabling identity reconstruction and promoting PTG processes.
Conclusions: The review examines PTG development following SCI with a focus on social processes. Identity reconstruction, within the context of the individual's social environment, appeared to be central to PTG. Social participation and integration opportunities are recommended as important considerations for rehabilitation discharge planning.
Keywords: Spinal cord injury; adjustment; meta-synthesis; post-traumatic growth; systematic review.
The review highlights the importance of rehabilitation professionals actively exploring how the individual is reconstructing their identity post-SCI.Reconstructing identity in positive ways can be supported by connecting goal planning and rehabilitation exercises with valued aspects of identity and facilitating access to psychological interventions.Assessment of the individual’s social environment, including family support and social participation opportunities, is important in supporting discharge from rehabilitation.Rehabilitation settings should continue to facilitate and strengthen opportunities to engage with and learn from peers.