Personality and psychosocial function after brain injury

Author(s): Powell, G., Torode, S.

Journal/Book: Brain Injury. 1995; 9: 4 John St, London, England WC1N 2ET. Taylor & Francis Ltd London. 697-712.

Abstract: A total of 74 brain-injured patients and 46 non-neurologically matched controls consecutively admitted to a specialist medical rehabilitation unit, were administered the 'Headley Court psychosocial rating scale' and four questionnaires examining personality traits of 'locus of control', use of humour', 'optimism' and 'easy-going disposition'. Both pre- and post-injury personality ratings were obtained. The relatives of all participants were sent the same scales. Personality changes are reported in each of the four areas; however, time post-injury appears to be a significant factor in the type of change reported; in this cross-sectional study, at 6 and 12 months post-injury, changes are noted in all variables except locus of control, whereas at 18 months post-injury only 'easy-going disposition' showed significant change, at 24 months post-injury changes were noted in all variables except optimism, and at 30 months post-injury no changes were noted. In the present study, examining a period of 2.5 years post-injury, the personality changes remain static once they have occurred. Despite widespread reports in the literature on the importance of pre- and post-trauma personality to good psychosocial functioning, the present study found that it was only an 'easy-going disposition' post-trauma that was consistently related to good psychosocial functioning. Reasons for this are discussed.

Note: Article K Malia, Raf, Dsmru, Headley Court, Epsom KT18 6JN, Surrey, England

Keyword(s): CLOSED HEAD-INJURY; STRESS RESISTANCE; FOLLOW-UP; REHABILITATION; RECOVERY; HEALTH; TRAUMA

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