Associations between illness perceptions, coping styles and outcome after mild traumatic brain injury: preliminary results from a cohort study.

Abstract

PURPOSE:

The objective of this study was to examine associations between injury perceptions, coping, distress and outcome after mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI).

DESIGN:

A prospective observational study with repeated measures. This study reports results from the first of two study visits.

PARTICIPANTS:

Participants (n = 147) were recruited within 3 months following presentation to a concussion clinic or an emergency department setting.

METHODS:

Clinical and demographic information was collected and participants completed a range of questionnaires (Revised Illness Perceptions Questionnaire, Brief COPE, Rivermead Post-Concussion Symptoms Questionnaire, Rivermead Follow-Up Questionnaire and HADS). Associations between independent variables and outcome were examined using odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals.

RESULTS:

Preliminary results suggested participants endorsing stronger beliefs about the injury identity (p < 0.05) and emotional impact (p < 0.01) had significantly greater odds of poor outcome at 3 months. There were also associations between higher educational attainment (p < 0.05), using active coping strategies (p < 0.06) and poor outcome.

CONCLUSIONS:

These variables appeared important determinants of outcome early after MTBI and may help identify those at risk for slow recovery. Current reassurance-based interventions may be improved by targeting such variables.

• Authors: Deborah L Snell, Richard J Siegert, E Jean C Hay-Smith, Lois J Surgenor
• Journal: Brain injury (Brain Inj) Vol. 25 Issue 11 Pg. 1126-38 ( 2011) ISSN: 1362-301X [Electronic] England
• PMID: 21870903 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Topics

• Adaptation, Psychological
• Adolescent
• Aged
• Brain Concussion (psychology, rehabilitation)
• Cohort Studies
• Female
• Humans
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Perception
• Post-Concussion Syndrome (psychology, rehabilitation)
• Prospective Studies
• Risk Factors
• Socioeconomic Factors
• Surveys and Questionnaires
• Treatment Outcome
• Young Adult