The role of the family in psychosocial adaptation to physical disabilities for African Americans.

Abstract

The psychosocial adjustment of patients who are experiencing physical disabilities is examined within the context of a family ecological approach. Historical and sociocultural characteristics of African-American families are delineated and explored in terms of their potentially positive impact on the adjustment process. Four family strengths are delineated: strong kinship bonds, strong religious orientation, family role flexibility, and strong education/work ethic. The authors demonstrate how these various assets interact reciprocally in the family lives of those individuals who are disabled. Contrary to the predominant deficit theories, a fresh asset-oriented approach is provided. A model of the family adjustment process of African-American clients with disabilities is presented, and some of the important strengths of the African-American family system are examined. Finally, a family strengths model is applied to the therapeutic process.