title: Self-perceived participation among adults with spinal cord injury: a grounded theory study.
abstract: METHODS
  A grounded theory study of 19 adults with spinal cord injury was conducted. Participants engaged in individual in-depth interviews, and took photographs of aspects of their environment that promoted and restricted participation. Analysis consisted of an inductive process of constant comparison. A focus group with participants was held to discuss and contribute to the credibility of findings.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To develop a theoretical understanding of the influences on self-perceived participation for individuals with SCI.
  
  
  METHODS
  Manitoba, Canada.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The constructed grounded theory model is summarized as follows: negotiating the body-environment interface is a continuous process for those living with a SCI. Despite the relative stability of their changed body, they live in a changed world, one that is perceived differently after SCI. People use various strategies to interact within their environment, to engage in a process of participation. Intervening conditions are the environmental aspects that serve as barriers or facilitators to this process of participation.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Study findings lend support to the need for a self-perceived definition of participation. The theory constructed in this study can be used to target interventions intended to improve the participation experiences of individuals with SCI.
authors: Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. ripatj@cc.umanitoba.ca
authors: J D
authors: JD
authors: Ripat
authors: R L
authors: RL
authors: Woodgate
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003625:Data Collection; D003627:Data Interpretation, Statistical; D004777:Environment; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008350:Manitoba; D008875:Middle Aged; D008960:Models, Psychological; D012649:Self Concept; D012919:Social Behavior; D012931:Social Environment; D013119:Spinal Cord Injuries / Q000523:psychology*; D055815:Young Adult