Common misconceptions about traumatic brain injury among family members of rehabilitation patients

Author(s): Farmer, J. E., Bouman, D. E.

Journal/Book: J Head Trauma Rehabil. 1997; 12: 7201 Mckinney Circle, Frederick, MD 21701. Aspen Publ Inc. 41-50.

Abstract: Objective: To investigate misconceptions about traumatic brain injury (TBI) held by family members early in the recovery process and to compare family responses to those reported by the general public. Design: Descriptive survey. Setting: Rehabilitation hospital. Participants: 51 family members and close friends (eg, fiances) of patients with acquired brain injury who were admitted for rehabilitation. Convenience sample. Interventions: None. Main Outcome Measure: A 40-item questionnaire assessing knowledge about TBI, adapted from previously published interview surveys of the general public. Results: Family members endorsed common misconceptions about TBI, especially in the areas of unconsciousness, amnesia, and recovery. Compared to previous surveys of the general public, they showed: (1) better understanding of the immediate significance of brain injury and its negative impact on cognition and (2) more misconceptions on items assessing beliefs about the patient's potential long-term outcome and future vulnerability. Conclusions: Some misconceptions held by family members may be detrimental to the rehabilitation process and should be addressed through improved family education. Other misconceptions may be related to optimistic appraisal strategies that help families cope. The self-report TBI questionnaire can be used to clarify family educational needs and may also sensitize professionals to family coping issues. More research is needed to determine the impact of family knowledge and beliefs about TBI on the recovery process.

Note: Article Springer JA, Med Coll Wisconsin, Dept Neurol, Mcw Clin Froedtert, 9200 W Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee,WI 53226 USA

Keyword(s): HEAD-INJURY

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