Factors Affecting The Impact Of Disability

People respond to disabilities in different ways. Some react negatively and thus their quality of life is negatively affected. Others choose to focus on their abilities as opposed to their disabilities and continue to live a productive life. There are several factors that affect the impact a disability has on an individual. The following are often considered the most significant factors in determining a disability's impact on an individual (Falvo, 2005).

• The Nature of the Disability – Was the disability acquired (a result of an accident, or acquired disease) or congenital  (present at birth)? If the disability is acquired, it is more likely to cause a negative reaction than a congenital disability. Congenital disabilities are disabilities that have always been present, thus requiring less of an adjustment than an acquired disability.
• The Individual’s Personality - Is the individual typically positive or negative, dependent or independent, goal-oriented or laissez-faire? Someone with a positive outlook is more likely to embrace a disability then someone with a negative outlook. Someone who is independent will continue to be independent and someone who is goal-oriented will continue to set and pursue goals.
• The Meaning of the Disability to the Individual - Does the individual define himself/herself by his/her looks or physical characteristics? If so, he/she is more likely to feel defined by his/her disability and thus it will have a negative impact. 
• The Individual’s Current Life Circumstances - Is the individual independent or dependent on others (parents)? What is the economic status of the individual or the individual's caregivers? What is the individual's education level? If the individual is happy with their current life circumstance, they are more likely to embrace their disability, whereas if they are not happy with their circumstances, they often blame their disability.
• The Individual's Support System - Does the individual have good support from family, a significant other, friends, or social groups?  If so, he/she will have an easier time coping with a disability and thus will not be effected negatively by their disability.

 

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