Psychosocial assessment in brain injury: An international social work survey

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective To survey social workers in the field of traumatic brain injury (TBI)/acquired brain injury (ABI) about their practice in conducting psychosocial assessments. Design: A cross-sectional quality assurance study. Design A cross-sectional quality assurance study. Participants Social workers from professional social work rehabilitation networks spanning Sweden, the United Kingdom, North America, and Asia Pacific regions. Measure Purpose-designed survey comprising closed and open items, organized into six sections and administered electronically. Results The 76 respondents were mainly female (65/76, 85.5%) from nine countries (majority from Australia, United States, Canada). Two-thirds of respondents were employed in outpatient/ community settings (51/76, 67.1%), with the balance working in inpatient/rehabilitation hospital settings. Over 80% of respondents conducted psychosocial assessments, with the assessments informed by a systemic focus, situating the individual within their broader family and societal networks. The top five issues identified in inpatient/rehabilitation settings were housing related needs, informed consent for treatment, caregiver support, financial issues and navigating the treatment system. In contrast, the leading issues identified in community settings related to emotional regulation, treatment resistance and compliance issues, depression, and self-esteem. Discussion Social workers assessed a broad range of psychosocial issues spanning individual, family, and environmental contextual factors. Findings will contribute to future development of a psychosocial assessment framework.