The Emotional Response to the Injury and Rehabilitation Process

Abstract

The present investigation examined the emotional response to the injury and rehabilitation process. Qualitative methods were used to uncover the emotional experience of injured athletes through thick description provided in multiple in-depth interviews, to gain an understanding of the psychological recovery from athletic injury, and consequently, to better assist injured athletes during their rehabilitation process. Participants were 10 university student-athletes from 2 Division III institutions in the northeastern U.S. who had sustained a moderate to severe injury. Participants were interviewed 3 times; onset of injury, 1 week post-injury, and 3 weeks post-injury; they responded to a series of writing stems on each occasion. The investigation centered on the interplay of cognitions and affect expressed, and the emotional experience of the injured athlete. Themes that emerged highlighted the fluctuations in emotions characterized by feelings of loss, decreased self-esteem, frustration, and anger. Thoughts and affect changed over time to view the injury as a challenge which participants approached with a positive attitude. The experience of the participants was acknowledged as a process in which they learned about themselves and the many emotions involved with being injured. Understanding the complexity of the experience can help researchers and practitioners assist injured athletes by facilitating a more effective recovery.