Service Users' Perceptions and Experiences of Goal Setting Theory and Practice in an Inpatient Neurorehabilitation Unit

Abstract

Goal setting is a key component in the rehabilitation process and clinical guidelines recommend collaboration between health care professionals, service users and their families. This qualitative preliminary study (n = 6) used semi-structured interviews to explore the perceptions and experiences of the goal setting process with service users on a neurorehabilitation unit. Two overall themes emerged: the components of goal setting and the factors that helped to guide the process. The participants reported experiencing varying levels of collaboration and concluded that goals should be achievable, realistic and negotiated, yet challenging. Short-term goals were seen as particularly valuable.