Recognition of disability. A single-case study of the experiences of a young disabled man

Abstract

Purpose: To examine which experiences may be important for a young disabled man to see his disability as a resource, and also how the disability might be recognized in psychomotor physiotherapy. Design, material and method: This study is as single-case study. The book “Against Normal” by Bjørn Hatterud (BH) makes up the empirical material. The analysis is thematic. Theoretically, the analysis is framed by the affirmative understanding of disability. Findings: The findings show how difference is associated to hurtful experiences with the physical body. At the same time, the same physical body has produced the intellect as a resource and a positive understanding of being a disabled youth. In various ways, the relationship with his mother and grandfather has been important in relation to recognizing the disability. Against this background, reference is made to how a psychomotor physiotherapist can contribute to patients who do not have the same relational support as BH, and who in principle do not see disability as a resource. Conclusion: As a young disabled person, relationships that build a positive understanding of difference have been crucial to experience life as good. There is an opportunity for the psychomotor physiotherapist in the affirmative understanding of disability. Future studies should look at how disabled persons can understand themselves in new and appreciative ways through psychomotor physiotherapy.

Keywords

• psychomotor physiotherapy
• disability
• affirmative model
• mental health
• diversity
• relationships