The purpose of this study is to examine using an empirical eco-systematic approach, the factors which affect the social adjustment of the disabled following resulting from a motor vehicle accidents (MVAs).
In spite of the increasing number of disable...
The purpose of this study is to examine using an empirical eco-systematic approach, the factors which affect the social adjustment of the disabled following resulting from a motor vehicle accidents (MVAs).
In spite of the increasing number of disabled individuals resulting from MVAs there is limited research conducted in this area. Those disabled resulting from MVAs are attempting to garner support both political and social from the Korean Government. These disabled individuals are collectively seeking a formal response. Concern for the social adjustment of such individual should be a priority in any advanced society.
This study analyzed the factors affecting social adjustment of the disabled resulting from MVAs in relation to personal, familial, and social-environmental aspects of this process. Data for analysis was collected from 155 MVA disabled individuals. Multiple regression analysis was used in this study. Data concerning the social adjustment of the MVA disabled using the Weissman's Social Adjustment Scale (SAS).
The findings are as follows.
First, self-esteem and ability to cope with stress were as measures the individuals personal characteristics. Self-esteem and the ability to cope with stress were found to be statistically significant measures of overall well-being. That is to say, when the MVA disabled demonstrated a greater measure of self-esteem and coping skills their overall social adjustment was improved.
Second, family income and family support were used as a measure of family well-being for the purposes of this study. Family income and family support were found to be statistically significant. That is to say, when the MVA disabled had access to greater family income and received more family support their overall social adjustment to the disability improved when compared to individuals that did not have such opportunities.
Third, social support as measured by such factors as supportive friendship, community, satisfaction with medical services, and satisfaction with human services in general were used to measure overall well-being of the individuals social environment. Among them, social support through friends and community were seen to be statistically significant. That is to say, when the MVA disabled have access to greater social support through friends, and community they tend to do better in terms of overall social adjustment.
This study concluded that there was no single determinant factor affecting the social adjustment of the disabled resulting from MVAs. Personal, family and community characteristics in totality impacted upon the overall the social adjustment of the disabled resulting from MVAs.
Based on such findings, in order to improve the social adjustment of the disabled resulting from MVAs, it is important for social workers to make significant efforts to activate the personal, family and community supports to engender more positive outcomes for these individuals. Furthermore, the Korean Government should direct its efforts toward expanding the rehabilitation services, with this central tenet in mind. In doing so it should consider further developing community resources such as self-help groups as this would go along way in improving the lifes of these individuals.