A-61 Exploring The Role Of Acculturation In The Development Of Post-Concussive Symptoms In Minority College Athletes

Abstract

Abstract Purpose This review explored the role acculturative stress may have in the development of post-concussive symptoms of minority college athletes. Data Selection The data was collected via scientific journals accessed library databases, google scholar, and PubMed. Criteria for the selection included: published since the year 2011, focus on college students, studies that were parsimonious and examined post-concussive symptoms, acculturation, and sports related concussions. Guidelines for abstracting data included comparing study abstract to text to confirm accuracy, and being aware of bias by selecting relevant research and interpreting results based on context and available evidence. Nine (N=9) studies were reviewed. Results The results showed that college athletes are at higher risk for developing PCS if they had experienced multiple concussions, pre-morbid mood disorders, and/or if they were experiencing co-morbid psychosocial stressors. Concerning acculturation among college students, the literature suggests that acculturative stress puts this population at an increased risk for the development of mood disorders like depression. Conclusions There may be a relationship between acculturation and the development of post-concussive symptoms in college students but more studies should be conducted that test the direct relationship.