Disruption of Life Roles Following Injury

Abstract

Clients with orthopedic and soft-tissue injuries (n = 53) who were settling insurance claims or currently in litigation were assessed using the Values Scales, Salience Inventory, measures of perceived exertion, physical capacity, and functional ability, and a structured interview, the Life Satisfaction Questionnaire. Participation in major life roles was compromised following injury. Role value scores for working and home/family roles also changed, but commitment to these roles did not. Women in this sample (n = 27) experienced disruptions in their social networks that were likely related to the compromise or loss of their working role.