Relationship between symptoms of mild head injury, psychosocial ability, psychological morbidity and coping style
View/ Open
Date
2007Author
Tessler, Emma–Rose
Metadata
Abstract
The mild head inured population accounts for 80 per cent of all head injuries and
whilst research has identified no neurological abnormalities, this population still report
to experience functional impairment. The current study set out to explore the biopsychosocial
factors that could exacerbate the symptoms of mild head injury. In this
respect, the study looks at the relationship between post concussion symptoms, social
ability, psychological morbidity and coping style using the Rivermead Post-concussion
symptoms Questionnaire, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, the
Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and the COPE questionnaire. Questionnaires
were sent out to 138 individuals at 6 months post injury to identify relationships
between coping style, post concussion symptoms, social support and psychological
morbidity. 32 respondents completed and returned the questionnaires. Post concussion
symptoms were positively related to social support, depression and anxiety. Active
coping was found to be negatively related to post concussion symptoms whereas
emotion focused and avoidant coping were positively associated with post concussion
symptoms. The results of the study suggest that in order to improve symptoms of mild
head injury practitioners must address symptoms of depression and anxiety, in addition
to promoting a more productive coping style.