A Qualitative Study of the Experiences of Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury Regarding Interpersonal and Social Relationship Transformations Post-Injury

Mahooti, Fariba; Raheb, Ghoncheh; Alipour, Fardin; Hatamizadeh, Nikta

doi:10.22038/jpsr.2026.88779.2722

A Qualitative Study of the Experiences of Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury Regarding Interpersonal and Social Relationship Transformations Post-Injury

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Fariba Mahooti ¹

Ghoncheh Raheb ²

Fardin Alipour ²

Nikta Hatamizadeh ³

¹ Department of Social Work. School of Paramedical Sciences and Rehabilitation. Mashhad University of Medical Sciences. Mashhad. Iran

² Department of Social Work, University of rehabilitation sciences and Social Health, Tehran, Iran

³ Department of Rehabilitation Management, University of rehabilitation sciences and Social Health, Tehran, Iran

10.22038/jpsr.2026.88779.2722

Abstract

Purpose:
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is an unexpected event that imposes numerous biopsychosocial consequences on individuals. These consequences affect mental health and well-being, transform personal, familial, and social roles, and significantly impact interpersonal, family, and social relationships. The present study aims to explore the transformations and changes in interpersonal and social relationships following SCI and to examine individuals' lived experiences of these changes.
Methods:
A qualitative research method was employed to understand these experiences. The study included a total of 11 individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) and 2 family members, selected through purposive sampling until data saturation was achieved. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted, and the data were analyzed using conventional qualitative content analysis.
Results:
The analysis revealed that the experiences of individuals with SCI regarding their social and interpersonal relationships could be categorized into 3 main themes and 9 subthemes. The primary themes were: Disruption in family system equilibrium, Reduced social belonging and Preference for peer relationships.
Conclusion:
Addressing the changes in interpersonal relationships and assisting both individuals and their families in adapting to these changes can significantly enhance personal growth and psychosocial adjustment.

Keywords

Qualitative Study

Spinal cord injury patients

Relationship dynamics

Social and interpersonal relations

Subjects