Date of Award
12-2004
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Occupational Therapy
First Advisor
Dr. Diane Dirette
Second Advisor
Dr. Richard Cooper
Third Advisor
Dr. Debra Lindstrom Hazel
Access Setting
Masters Thesis-Open Access
Abstract
My study investigates the development of self-awareness and use of compensatory strategies in eight adults with traumatic brain injuries using the Awareness Questionnaire (AQ) and three additional questions of descriptive nature. This study also examines whether or not the severity of brain injury (mild, moderate, severe) impacts the development of self-awareness. In addition, the spouses' perceptions of client awareness are compared to the relatives' to determine existence of potential variance.
Results indicate that while there is no significant difference in self-awareness_ between the mild and moderate groups, the severe group significantly varies from both the mild and moderate groups. Also, results indicate that there is no significant difference between significant other (SO) and relative perceptions of client self-awareness. Exploration of descriptive data reveals that development of self-awareness is a lengthier process for clients with severe TBI than clients with mild and/or moderate TBI. Three methods of self-awareness development are identified: self- identification, talking with loved ones, and contact with health care professionals. Further analysis of descriptive data indicates that writing things down is the most commonly identified compensatory strategy that was used. Implications for rehabilitation and future research are discussed.
Recommended Citation
Byrne, Melissa A., "A Closer Look at Development of Self-Awareness and Compensatory Strategy Use in Adults with Traumatic Brain Injury" (2004). Masters Theses. 4607.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/masters_theses/4607