Article

Effective measurement and optimization of re-entry into the community after
injury depends on a degree of understanding of how those injured persons actually
perceive their community. In light of the limited research about foundational
concepts regarding community integration after spinal cord injury, this study
investigated how a large number of adults with spinal cord injury described their
local communities. In the course of telephonic interviews, qualitative
descriptions of community were obtained from 269 participants (1-56 years
postinjury). These were thematically analysed for content and valence by three
researchers. In addition to descriptions of community as 'place', findings echoed
the three dimensions commonly included in measures of community integration,
namely social integration, occupation and independent living. Participants who
described their community in social and relationship terms reflected generally
positive views about that community, whereas those who described their community
in terms of physical space and access expressed a relatively greater proportion
of negative views when describing their community. In general, substantial
diversity of responses across participants suggested a need for greater
complexity in understanding, measurement and clinical application of the notion
of community within the area of community integration and participation.
Specifically, the importance of focusing on social and relationship dimensions of
community integration is emphasized for rehabilitation practice.

Langue : ANGLAIS