Abstract
This study describes the impact of participation in a conversational group for individuals with chronic closed head injury in the Department of Communication Pathology at the University of Pretoria over the period 1995-2000. The information was obtained through a combination of clinical observations by the writers; the examination of data from Pragmatic measures; and a Quality of Life Scale that was compiled and administered (to both the subjects and their significant others) examining the perceived effects of group therapy over time. The results showed that despite the plateauing of pragmatic competence over time, the impact of group therapy appeared to reveal itself in perceived improvements in social-communicative competence and quality of life by the subjects. Recommendation and suggestions were made for the refinement of the QOL Scale to more reliably measure the subjective perceptions of group members regarding the perceived value of group therapy. In addition to addressing future implications to move the conversation group forward, the results of the current study lead the authors to advocate the establishment of conversation groups for individuals with CHI who are suitable candidates.
Highlights
IntroductionPragmatic measures; and a Quality of Life Scale that was compiled and administered (to both the subjects and their significant others) examining the perceived effects of group therapy over time
Pragmatic measures; and a Quality of Life Scale that was compiled and administered examining the perceived effects of group therapy over time
The results imply that the significant others attributed the positive changes noted in the subjects to, among others, participation in the conversation group (CG)
Summary
Pragmatic measures; and a Quality of Life Scale that was compiled and administered (to both the subjects and their significant others) examining the perceived effects of group therapy over time. In South Africa today, people are finding the lUXUry of individual therapy more and more unaffordable, and, group therapy is being advocated as a.,.,more cost-effective form of therapy Another benefit9f group therapy in South Africa relates to the reported high client-therapist ratio (Uys & Hugo, 1997). Given this situation, it is the current writers' contention that group therapy provides a relevant, effective and economic vehicle for providing neurogenic communication treatment. Persons with CHI may potentially experience a variety of long-term residual problems that could interfere with their ability to communicate efficientiy at home and in the workplace This may result in a diminished sense of self-esteem and self-worth that affects their ability to re-enter and remain successfully in the community.
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