title: The self-perceptions and interpersonal relationships of persons with significant physical disabilities: a qualitative pilot study.
abstract: This exploratory, qualitative research was conducted to obtain the perspectives of people with significant physical disabilities regarding factors that have facilitated and hindered the development of a positive self-concept, participation in the broader society, and the formation of interpersonal relationships. The sample was high achieving in terms of education and/or career and attributed positive self-perceptions and their success in the broader society and interpersonal relationships to the attitudes and perceptions regarding their abilities, talents, and potential modeled in supportive family relationships. Females reported the influence of significant others most often, and males the effectiveness of their personality characteristics. Societal barriers, both practical and attitudinal, were reported along with the process for developing a positive selfperception despite these.
authors.affiliation: Department of Social Welfare, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
authors.forename: Donald
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Riley
authors.forename: Diane
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: de Anda
authors.forename: Carrie Ann
authors.initials: CA
authors.lastname: Blackaller
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D006233:Persons with Disabilities / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010865:Pilot Projects; D036301:Qualitative Research; D011788:Quality of Life; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012494:Sampling Studies; D012649:Self Concept; D012737:Sex Factors