Effect of family support on psychological adjustment of physically handicapped adolescents

Abstract

Objective: To assess the effect of family support on psychological adjustment of physically handicapped adolescents, and to assess gender differences in this regard.

Method: The cross-sectional study was conducted in Rawalpindi and Islamabad, Pakistan, from May to July 2023, and comprised male and female physically handicapped adolescents living in joint family systems. Data was collected using standardised tools, including Family Support Scale and Psychological Adjustment Scale. The relationships between perceived family support and psychological adjustment were explored. The relationships between perceived family support and psychological adjustment were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation, t- test and regression analysis via SPSS version 22.0.

Results: Out of total 150 individuals participants were (f=56, 37%) and male participants were (f=94, 63 %). The age range for the participants was 13 to 18 years (15.5±1.8) Increased family support meant increased psychological adjustment (p<0.05). There was no significant gender difference (p>0.01) in this regard.

Conclusion: Family support was a strong predictor of psychological adjustment among physically handicapped adolescents, while gender difference in this regard was not significant.

Key Words: Physical disability, Family support, Psychological adjustment.