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Successfully Negotiating Life Challenges: Learnings From Adults With Cerebral Palsy

journal contribution
posted on 2021-10-01, 00:00 authored by Cadeyrn GaskinCadeyrn Gaskin, C Imms, G R. Dagley, M E Msall, D Reddihough
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.

History

Journal

Qualitative Health Research

Volume

31

Issue

12

Article number

ARTN 10497323211023449

Pagination

2176 - 2193

Publisher

SAGE PUBLICATIONS INC

Location

United States

ISSN

1049-7323

eISSN

1552-7557

Language

English

Publication classification

C1 Refereed article in a scholarly journal