(1) Dept. of Human Development and Family Studies, University of Nevada, 89557 Reno, NV;(2) Point Man Ministry, P.O. Box 12904, 89510 Reno, NV;(3) St. Mary's Hospital, 450 Stanyan, 94117 San Francisco, CA
Abstract:
Concepts from family systems theory are used to facilitate understanding of the needs of families coping with the spinal cord injury of an adolescent. Five assumptions derived from systemic principles are discussed as related to assessment and family functioning. Related suggestions are given for assisting parents in dealing with this non-normative stressor and its long-range effects on the adolescent and family.