title: Meaning perspective transformation following stroke: the process of change.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Transformative Learning in an educational theory that posits that individuals learn and grow when their meaning perspectives (frames of reference for interpreting an experience based on knowledge, feelings, values and beliefs) are reformulated following a critical event. This theory has become quite influential in the exploration of adaptation to chronic illness. This study explored whether the change that occurs following stroke follows a process similar to transformative learning.
  
  
  METHODS
  Grounded Theory approach was used to explore changes in meaning perspective among 12 people who were members of stroke support organisations, had a stroke at least 1 year prior to the study and described themselves as viewing life positively following stroke. Constant comparison analysis of interviews with these individuals was used to explore their experience following stroke.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Meaning perspective transformation occurred with four factors contributing to transformation: triggers, support, knowledge and choices to action. A substantive grounded theory of the process of meaning perspective transformation following stroke is presented, which illustrates the interaction of these contributing factors in initiating and facilitating the transformation process.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Transformative learning can offer insight into how people who have experienced stroke learn, rebuild competence and re-engage in valued activities.
authors.affiliation: Occupational Therapy Service, Bruyère Continuing Care, Ottawa, ON, Canada. dkessler@scohs.on.ca
authors.forename: Dorothy
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Kessler
authors.forename: Claire-Jehanne
authors.initials: CJ
authors.lastname: Dubouloz
authors.forename: Reg
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Urbanowski
authors.forename: Mary
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Egan
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D012944:Social Support; D020521:Stroke / Q000523:psychology*; D000071939:Stroke Rehabilitation