The Psychosocial Adjustment of Patients Suffering From MildStroke: a Multilevel Approach

Abstract

ABSTRACT:-In a developing nation like Nigeria, it has been observed that stroke patients just like the terminal disease patients suffer more in the hand of the people around them compared to the scourge of the ailment itself. They have suffered a lot of psychological and social withdrawal due to negative attitude and knowledge of every individual which have an adverse effect on their self-esteem, coping strategies, and positive affect. This study examined the psychosocial adjustment of patients suffering from mild stroke and the role played by the family, caregivers, social network in their adjustment to living and life management. Two research questions were raised and answered in this study. The survey research design was adopted for this study. Twenty-one stroke survivors volunteered to participate in the study while just nineteen stroke survivors completed the interviews. The participants included 14 males and 5 females aged between 37 and 66 years. Data were collected through structured interview and questionnaire, which were analyzed using multiple regression and t-test statistical tools of SPSS. Results revealed that 49.9% of the total variability in stroke patients" social and psychological adjustment is accounted for by social stigma, perceived limitation, management of life, financial adjustment, and Intrapersonal adjustment. Also, a significant relative influence was observed on the sources of social support received on stroke patients" psychological adjustment. It was concluded that not all individuals are blessed with the repertoire of psychosocial factors that promote adjustment. Thus, the importance of approaches such as problem solving, decisions about treatment and care, and the potential for personal control over manageable issues of life cannot be over emphasized.