title: Adjustment to disability.
abstract: This article will focus on the biopsychosocial challenges encountered when an individual is disabled at an early age as well as when an individual acquires a disability later in life. Two case examples will focus on the adaptations/life choices that are necessary to adequately meet psycho/social/developmental needs and enhance individual self esteem. The case of Rita, a woman who lost her hearing at age two, highlights the importance of integrating a biopsychosocial approach to understand the multiple challenges and adaptations of individuals who are disabled at an early age. Laureen, a woman who acquired a spinal cord injury during her late teen years, described her struggles as a young adult adapting to a physical disability. Both cases highlight the importance of integrating an ecological/systems framework focusing on a biopsychosocial perspective, emphasizing the interrelationship between biological, psychological, social, technological, cultural and political factors.
authors.affiliation: Department of Social Work, Gallaudet University, Washington, DC 20002, USA. carol.cohen@gaullaudet.edu
authors.forename: Carol B
authors.initials: CB
authors.lastname: Cohen
authors.forename: Donna
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Napolitano