Gränsen mellan människa och teknik: En studie om bioniska proteser, självbild och professionellas perspektiv
2026 (Swedish)Independent thesis Basic level (degree of Bachelor), 10 credits / 15 HE credits
Student thesisAlternative title
The Boundary between Human and Technology : A Study of Bionic Prostheses, Self-image, and Professional Perspectives (English)
Abstract [en]
This study aimed to explore how professionals describe and interpret the impact of technical prostheses on users’ self-image and body-image. A qualitative approach to the study was employed, using semi-structured interviews with the total of six professionals, including three prosthetists and three occupational therapists. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis, resulting in four main themes: (1) user conditions and identity, (2) experiences of prosthetic function and use, (3) independence and participation in the rehabilitation process, and (4) social factors and environment. The results indicate that the impact of prostheses on self-image and body-image is complex and shaped through an interaction of individual, technical and social factors. Furthermore, the study highlights that functionality is not determined only by technological advancement but by how well the prostheses meet the user’s everyday needs and goals. Unrealistic expectations, often influenced by media representations, may lead to frustration and reduced usage. In contrast, user participation, training and realistic goal-setting are crucial for successful adaptation and long-term use. Social support and environmental attitudes were also found to significantly influence user's self-image and the level of acceptance of the prosthesis. In conclusion, this study emphasizes the importance of a person-centered approach in prosthetic rehabilitation, where both technical and psychosocial aspects are integrated. Future research should further investigate the long-term development of self-image and body-image among prosthesis users and explore the psychosocial impact of different types of prosthetic technologies.
Place, publisher, year, edition, pages
2026. , p. 49
Keywords [en]
Embodiment, professional perspectives, prosthetic rehabilitation, self-image, technical prosthetics
National Category
Social Work
Identifiers
URN: urn:nbn:se:mau:diva-84062OAI: oai:DiVA.org:mau-84062DiVA, id: diva2:2058234
Educational program
HS Handikapp- och rehabiliteringsvetenskap
Supervisors
Examiners
2026-05-222026-05-072026-05-22Bibliographically approved