The acquisition of knowledge about disability

Using a multiple correlation statistical approach, this study- explored the relationship between a variety of independent variables and demonstrated knowledge about paraplegia and rated progress in physical therapy as the respective dependent variables. The sample tested consisted of 50 hospitalized male paraplegics. The predicted negative correlation between locus of control orientation and demonstrated knowledge about paraplegia was confirmed. Internality was shown to be associated with relatively high degrees of knowledge about paraplegia as well as with relatively positive physical therapy progress ratings. The predicted positive correlation between duration of disability and demonstrated knowledge about paraplegia was not confirmed. In combination with other variables, however, time since onset of disability was shown to be associated with relatively high amounts of knowledge about paraplegia in a mildly parabolic manner. The regression equation for predicting knowledge about paraplegia scores for fixed values of other variables was presented. The predicted negative correlation between perceived impact of disability and knowledge about paraplegia was not confirmed. This indicated that, for the sample tested, feelings about bein/ paraplegic and demonstrated knowledge about paraplegia were unrelated. Time since onset of disability was shown to be unrelated to rated progress in physical therapy. In combination with other variables, however, time since onset was related to progress in physical therapy in a strong parabolic manner. This suggested the existence of critical periods during which progress in physical therapy is most likely to take place. Finally, the regression equation for predicting progress in physical therapy for fixed values of other variables was presented.