Emotional Vitality: Concept of Importance for Rehabilitation

Objectives

To (1) provide a framework for the conceptualization of emotional vitality as an important construct for rehabilitation professionals; (2) outline the existing scope and breadth of knowledge currently available regarding the definition and measurement of emotional vitality in persons with chronic health conditions; and (3) identify the extent to which the components can be mapped to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF).

Design

Activities included a scoping review of the literature, and a Delphi mapping exercise using the ICF.

Setting

Not applicable.

Participants

Not applicable.

Intervention

Not applicable.

Main Outcome Measure

Not applicable.

Results

The results of this study suggest that emotional vitality is a complex latent construct that includes (1) physical energy and well-being, (2) regulation of mood, (3) mastery, and (4) engagement and interest in life. Existing literature supported the presence of all 4 components of the construct. The mapping exercise showed that 3 of these components could be readily mapped to the Body Function chapter of the ICF (energy, mood, mastery).

Conclusions

Emotional vitality may influence both the physical and emotional adaptation to living with a chronic illness or disability and should be included in both assessment and treatment planning to optimize rehabilitation outcomes. Future research is needed to refine the definition and identify optimal methods of measuring this construct.