People with Disability - Factors Affecting Satisfactory Resolution of a Transition

In the psychological literature, coping is seen as a form of problem solving. Some of the factors that affect the time required for satisfactory resolution of a transition include:

• The attitude the individual has to the event. . If change is seen as a normal part of living, rather than a curse or bad luck, this assists in coping. Those who perceive themselves as ‘in charge of their lives’ are resilient copers, as are those who are keen to resolve a challenge and see themselves as powerful actors in managing the change.
• The meaning of the transition to the person – how important is it and to what extent does it affect their identity and lifestyle?
• The degree to which the individual has a direct and active role in the change process (Agran and Wehmeyer, 2000).
• Whether the change is desired and seen as positive or not. Bramston and Cummins (1998) found that a positive event can be defined as a reduction in uncertainty and/or an increase in the perception of control.
• Other issues affecting the person’s life at the time. (Bramston and Cummins. 1988) found that while a transition such as moving into community accommodation may not be stressful in itself, and in fact is seen as a positive event which lowers stress at the time, other issues in their life may re-emerge and contribute to perceived increases in stress.
• The extent to which the person is aware and expresses feelings about the transition.
• Previous experience and learning
• Counselling where appropriate and in circumstances where anxiety is high.
• Personal coping skills e.g. experience of dealing with challenges successfully.
• Availability of and building and using support networks

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Related posts:

1. People with Disability Facing Life Transitions
2. People with Disability – The Effect of Badly Managed Transitions
3. People with Disability Share Their Experience of Life Transitions
4. People with Disability – Defining Transitions
5. People with Disability as Researchers
6. The Housing Connection