The aphasic person’s views of the encounter with other people: a grounded theory analysis

Abstract

Being affected by aphasia influences the total life experience. The aim of this study was to generate a theoretical model, from a nursing perspective, of what aphasic persons (n = 12) experience in encounters with other people. Data were collected through interviews which adopted a biophysical, socio-cultural and psychological approach and then analysed using grounded theory method. Two main categories emerged, namely: 'interaction' and 'support'. Encountered experiences led to: 'a feeling of having ability'; 'a feeling of being an outsider'; and 'a feeling of dejection or uncertainty'. The feeling state was dependent on whether the interaction was 'obstructed' or 'secure' and on whether the support resulted in 'strengthened' or 'impaired' self-esteem. Therefore nurses need to give support that enhances patients' self-esteem and which results in them gaining a positive and realistic view of their aphasia, as well as involving those around them in this perspective. This then will give the possibility for the patient to turn the interaction process from an obstructed into a secure one.

A new life with aphasia: everyday activities and social support

“…In the present study, one common reaction was that the participants felt socially isolated, because they could not participate in their social life, and they had no employment. This phenomenon has previously been described in other studies (12,53,58,59), and social life was seen to have significant social consequences. A study by Cruice et al (54) showed that if people had more contacts with their friends and relatives they would receive better support, and their social life would probably be improved.…”

Social participation through the eyes of people with aphasia

“…Interaction implies communication and communication abilities are disrupted in people with aphasia. Aphasia results in social and psychological strains which affect relationships and participation in different social life domains (Andersson and Fridlund 2002, Parr 2001, 2007, Le Dorze and Brassard 1995). Someone with aphasia is confronted with an enormous challenge to fulfil his or her roles, for example as a partner, parent, friend, club member, or employer.…”

SHORT REPORT The relationship between the severity of post‐stroke aphasia and state self‐esteem

“…A possible explanation, which was not explored in this study, is that the patients enjoyed good support from their families and professional carers following discharge from hospital. Family and social support has previously been shown to moderate the negative impact of disease and to restore self-esteem of aphasic people (Andersson & Fridlund, 2002). It also appears to enhance satisfaction with life (Parr, 1994).…”