Successfully Negotiating Life Challenges: Learnings From Adults With Cerebral Palsy. (October 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gaskin, Cadeyrn J.; Imms, Christine; R. Dagley, Gavin; Msall, Michael E.; Reddihough, Dinah
• Is Part Of: Qualitative health research. Volume 31:Number 12(2021)
• Page Start: 2176
• Page End: 2193
• Publication Date: 2021-10
• Subjects: cerebral palsy -- adults -- participation -- qualitative -- interpretive description -- Australia; Health -- Periodicals; Health behavior -- Periodicals; Health -- Research -- Methodology -- Periodicals; Health behavior -- Research -- Methodology -- Periodicals; 610.7205
• DOI: 10.1177/10497323211023449
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1049-7323

Abstract

Despite facing multidimensional inequalities, some adults with cerebral palsy achieve positive social outcomes (e.g., independent living, employment, and romantic relationships). We interviewed 23 adults (aged 23–47 years) about how they successfully negotiated the challenges of adulthood. Common to all life situations was doing what others (people without cerebral palsy) do . Origins of success lay in their formative experiences (e.g., typical parental expectations with commensurate support and acceptance and supported involvement in school life). Their present functioning (e.g., positive self-concept, well-honed social skills, and physical fitness) combined with present contexts (e.g., expectations of involvement in adult activities and accessible and accommodating environments) enabled them to find ways of negotiating challenges. Finding a way included drawing on knowledge and skills, gravitating toward those who are comfortable with difference, maintaining function, and using natural and paid supports. The findings suggest multiple avenues for supporting people with cerebral palsy to achieve positive social outcomes.