Article

PURPOSE: To explore the goal-related strategies employed by people following
lower limb amputation using a framework based on the dual-process model of
adaptive self-regulation. METHODS: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with
30 individuals with a lower limb amputation. RESULTS: Theoretical thematic
analysis identified four broad assimilative/goal pursuit strategies; internal
resource use, planning, technology use and help use. The most common strategies
were maintaining a specific leisure activity (n=20), seeking instrumental help
(n=15) and determination (n=15). Three broad categories of accommodative/goal
adjustment strategies were also identified; interpersonal accommodation, managing
limitations and meaning-making. The most common were accepting limitations
(n=18), emotional support from friends and family (n=17) and adjusting goals to
constraints (n=16). There was also evidence of strategies that combined the use
of accommodative and assimilative strategies, and the use of avoidant strategies.
CONCLUSIONS: The findings point towards key assimilative/goal pursuit and
accommodative/goal adjustment strategies that may be adaptive following lower
limb amputation. The study highlights the potential usefulness of the
dual-process model in understanding how individuals adapt to functional
disability, while bringing to light issues warranting further explication within
this framework. Implications for Rehabilitation People adopt specific adaptive
goal pursuit and goal adjustment strategies in response to goal disruptions
following limb loss. Being aware of the processes involved in regulating goals in
response to challenges is useful for understanding adjustment to limb loss.
Greater understanding of adaptive and maladaptive goal strategies may help the
rehabilitation team to foster positive outcomes in people with lower limb
amputation.

Langue : ANGLAIS