Identity Development Among Veterans with Spinal Cord Injury: A Qualitative Study

Purpose/objective: The purpose of the present study was to identify perceived effects of spinal cord injury (SCI) on identity development and processes of reestablishing an integrated identity after SCI in a veteran sample.

Research Method/design: Semistructured interviews with = 21 veterans explored perceived effects of SCI on identity, including future orientation, meaning and purpose in life, engagement in key life roles including family, friendships, and work and engagement with other individuals with disabilities. Participants also completed survey measures of depressive symptoms and self-concept clarity. Mental health history data were extracted from electronic health records. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results: Participants frequently discussed identity-relevant changes in career roles, disrupted social roles, and changes in their sense of independence. However, most participants also emphasized aspects of their identity that remained continuous despite their injury. Among the most frequently discussed strategies for reestablishing an integrated identity after SCI were "adapting activities" and "establishing an active life," themes that highlight the relevance of identity exploration in adulthood. Military identity and culture afforded both benefits in adjusting to SCI (e.g., perseverance in recovery processes) as well as vulnerabilities (e.g., threats to self-sufficiency and physical fitness).

Conclusions/implications: The findings reinforce the importance of disability identity development as well as overall identity integration and reveal potential strategies that individuals may use to adapt their identities following SCI. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved).