The Impact of Psychosocial Factors on Adapting to Physical Disability: A Review of the Research Literature

Physically disabled persons are challenged to cope with a wide range of stressors in maintaining meaningful lives. Adjustment depends, in part, on psychological and social factors that promote effective coping with old and new demands. This article is a review of current research on the relationship of social support, self-concept, locus of control, and hardiness to the adjustment of persons with physical disabilities. Implications and a psychosocial assessment guide are presented to help rehabilitation nurses evaluate patients' psychosocial status and formulate interventions.