The discovery of disability: a phenomenological study of unilateral neglect

Am J Occup Ther. 2000 Jul-Aug;54(4):398-406. doi: 10.5014/ajot.54.4.398.

Abstract

Objective: Clients with right brain damage and unilateral neglect often lack awareness of their disabilities. This study examined how 4 participants with neglect experienced, discovered, and handled their disabilities in the context of their everyday life.

Method: The 4 participants were interviewed five to seven times during their rehabilitation process. The data were collected and analyzed using the EPP (empirical, phenomenological, psychological) method.

Findings: Findings revealed seven features that described a discovery process for the 4 participants. During this process, each participant began to discover and understand the consequences of her unilateral neglect in the performance of everyday tasks. This increased understanding was a prerequisite to being able to use compensatory strategies.

Conclusion: By experiencing meaningful occupational situations, the participants gradually discovered and began to compensate for their disabilities in everyday life.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Female
  • Hemiplegia / etiology
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Perceptual Disorders / etiology
  • Perceptual Disorders / psychology*
  • Perceptual Disorders / rehabilitation
  • Recovery of Function*
  • Stroke / complications*
  • Sweden