The doctoral dissertation by researcher Aqil Saad Nayef, titled “Psychological Resilience in Adolescents with Physical Disabilities Following Prosthetic Rehabilitation: A Mixed-Methods Study,” under the supervision of Assistant Professor Dr. Zaid Wahid Ajel.
The study primarily aimed to determine the level of psychological resilience among adolescents with lower limb amputations after they underwent prosthetic fitting, and to explore their lived experiences and their psychological and social adaptation to their new physical realities.
The study’s results and conclusions showed that psychological resilience is a dynamic, evolving process rather than a fixed personality trait, as the spiritual dimension, social and family support systems, and care provided by healthcare professionals, along with self-regulation strategies, in alleviating the initial psychological trauma and enabling adolescents to achieve functional independence and psychological well-being, as well as a positive transition from feelings of anxiety and sadness toward hope and social integration.
Based on the research findings, the study recommended the design and implementation of evidence-based psychological support and rehabilitation programs targeting adolescents immediately following prosthetic fitting, particularly during the first three months of the rehabilitation phase, as well as increased funding and the provision of necessary resources to prosthetic centers to improve the quality of nursing and health care provided to this population. Following an extensive academic discussion, the researcher’s efforts culminated in the thesis being awarded a grade of “excellent.”
The findings of this study align with the Sustainable Development Goals that the College of Nursing at the University of Baghdad seeks to promote, particularly Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and Goal 10 (Reduced Inequalities), through supporting and empowering people with physical disabilities and developing comprehensive psychological and health rehabilitation programs.
