A phenomenological study into the experience of their sexuality by males with spinal cord injury

Abstract

On reviewing the literature on spinal cord injury (SCI) and sexuality in males, there was found to be a plethora of research in physical domains. Sadly, the psychological aspect of sexuality for men who experience SCI has been largely neglected. For this reason a phenomenological study was conducted to understand the experience of sexuality in its totality for the male who experiences SCI. Four males with SCI were included in the study. Central themes that emerged from the transcribed interviews included the establishment of an existential baseline, diminished independence and perceptions of masculinity post-injury. Participants also divulged needs pertaining to their (potential) relationships. Lastly, religion and certain coping mechanisms were found to either facilitate or hinder sexuality post-trauma depending on their rigidity and effectiveness respectively.