Conceptual framework of the recovery of self-awareness following a severe traumatic brain injury in childhood

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction Self-awareness following a TBI in childhood is an under-represented area of research in the pediatric literature. The issue is well described in the adult literature but the theories and practice recommendations in this body of literature are not easily transferable to pediatric neurorehabilitation. Children and young people sustain a TBI at a time when the brain is yet to fully develop. This paper outlines a conceptual framework that incorporates and adapts knowledge from the adult and pediatric literature of self-awareness. Methods The content and the structure of the framework is constructed from clinical experience, existing literature and the findings from an empirical study. Findings A conceptual framework is presented with 3 key components: self-awareness knowledge, self-awareness in context, self-awareness for the future. The components are explained and the relationship between the concepts is highlighted. Conclusion The framework provides a common language for clinicians and academics to explore the concepts that impact self-awareness during recovery. The framework captures the dynamic developmental and recovery trajectory of self-awareness following a TBI in childhood.