Subjective well-being among African-Americans with spinal cord injury: an exploratory study between men and women.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to identify gender differences in subjective well-being among 309 African-American participants with spinal cord injury (SCI).


METHODS
Cross-sectional.


METHODS
A Southeastern specialty hospital.


METHODS
There were a total of 309 participants, all of whom were African-Americans. All participants had traumatic SCI, were at least 18 years or older at the time of the study, and a minimum of one year had passed since SCI onset.


METHODS
Measures of subjective well-being included the Life Situation Questionnaire--Revised, Purpose in Life scale, and the Older Adult Health and Mood Questionnaire.


RESULTS
Multiple gender differences were observed, with women reporting higher scores on depressive symptoms and negative affect, but lower scores on purpose in life. Other significant findings were observed related to self-reported problems, with men reporting greater problems with pressure ulcers and sexual issues and women reporting greater problems in several areas related to coping and affect. The only gender difference in life satisfaction indicated greater satisfaction with sex life among women.


CONCLUSIONS
It is clear from the findings that differences do exist among male and female African-Americans with spinal cord injuries. More research is needed to definitively outline differences.
Krause
James S
JS
Medical University of South Carolina, 19 Hagood Avenue, Suite 910, Charleston, SC 29425, USA. krause@musc.edu
Broderick
Lynne E
LE
Broyles
Joy
J
D000328:Adult; D001741:Black or African American; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D006304:Health Status; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010549:Personal Satisfaction; D011788:Quality of Life / Q000523:psychology*; D012647:Self-Assessment; D012737:Sex Factors; D013119:Spinal Cord Injuries / Q000208:ethnology* / Q000523:psychology*