Coping versus Succumbing
When we face physical challenges, there are two choices before us...To cope up with our situation or to succumb to the depression and negative feelings caused due to it..the choice is ours..Here you can see the difference...and decide....
COPING
1. The emphasis is on what the person can do.
2. Areas of life in which ther person can participate are seen as worthwhile.
3. The person is perceived as playing an active role in molding his/her life constructively.
4. The accomplishments of the person are appreciated in terms of their benefits to the person and others, and devalued because they fall short of some standard.
5. The negative aspects of the person's life are felt to be manageable. They are limited as satisfactory aspects are recognized.
6. Managing difficulties means reducing limitations through changes in the social and physical environment as well as the person. Examples are:
- By eliminating barriers
- By environmental accommodations
- By medical procedures
- By prostheses and other assistive devices
- By learning new skills
7. Managing difficulties also means living on satisfactory terms with one's limitations. This involves important value changes.
8. The fact that individuals with disabilities can live meaningful lives is indicated by their participation in valued activities and by their sharing in the satisfactions of living.
SUCCUMBING
1. The emphasis is on what the person can't do.
2. Little weight is given to the areas of life in which the person can participate.
3. The person is perceived as passive, as a victim of misfortune.
4. The person's accomplishments are minimized by highlighting their shortcomings.
5. The negative aspects of the person's life are kept in the forefront of attention. They are emphasized and exaggerated.
6. Prevention and cure are the only valid solutions to the problems of disability.
7. The only way to live with the disability is to resign oneself or to act as if the disability does not exist.
8. The person with a disability is pitied.
