Addressing the Long-Term Influence of Neurotrauma on Self-Concept and Self-Identity Development: A Pilot Study

Credentials Display

Alyse C. Giallorenzo, OTD, OTR; Brittany C. Adams, OTD, MS, OTR; Jessica M. Winter, OTD, OTR

Abstract

Background: Numerous neurotrauma survivors face lifelong disability post injury as a result of an event, yet there are limited specialized continued care services to support future outcomes, specifically self-concept, self-identity, and quality of life. To reduce health care barriers and support health promotion post injury, student researchers explored the influence of a community-based occupational therapy (OT) program for the neurotrauma population.

Methods: Four participants, 37 to 58 years of age, with a history of neurotrauma, participated in a mixed methods study composed of a 6-week community-based educational OT program. Outcome measures included Activity Card Sort, Lawton Brody Scale, Pre and Post Surveys, and Semi-Structured Interviewing.

Results: Data from the study support implementation of a community-based program, such as the one used in this study. This study highlighted the need for a program addressing self-concept, self-identity, and post-injury quality of life in addition to occupational engagement at a community level.

Conclusion: The findings from the current study reinforce participation in a community-based OT program as an effective approach to address long-term outcomes post neurotrauma, specifically self-concept, self-identity, and quality of life. Program efficacy is supported by both quantitative and qualitative findings; however, further research is required to generalize the findings to the neurotrauma population as a whole.

Recommended Citation

Giallorenzo, A. C., Adams, B. C., & Winter, J. M. (2023). Addressing the Long-Term Influence of Neurotrauma on Self-Concept and Self-Identity Development: A Pilot Study. The Open Journal of Occupational Therapy, 11(4), 1-20. https://doi.org/10.15453/2168-6408.2089