Abstract
This study explored the psychosocial impact of traumatic brain injury on the perceived quality of life of a purposefully selected group of 14 spouses/partners of head injured persons by means of a self-administered questionnaire. Analysis of responses revealed that spouses/partners' altered communication patterns were perceived to have affected interpersonal relationships and quality of life extensively, indicating the need for speech-language therapy. Decreased income was noted due to the low incidence of return to work. Participants reported changes in family relationships, particularly between the injured person and their children as well as deterioration in marital relationships, suggesting the necessity for family therapy and marital counselling. Various emotional reactions were documented in response to injury. Yet most respondents expressed acceptance of their new roles and responsibilities despite the difficulties entailed. Since injured persons were dependent on their spouses/partners to a large extent, most of the latter reported feeling tied down. Loneliness predominated as a social consequence despite the support of pre-injury friendships. In terms of coping resources, friends, family, religion and support groups were perceived to be most effective. Results are discussed in terms of their clinical implications for psychosocial rehabilitation and spouse/partner counselling.
Highlights
In South Africa, the incidence of traumatic brain injury (TBI), which includes both penetrating injuries from sharp objects as well as closed head injuries from blunt objects is regarded as very high, namely 316 per 100 000 persons (Nell & Brown, 1990)
Spouses/partners should be informed about the basis for the communicative difficulties which invariably disrupt conversation and interpersonal relationships, in order to assist their coming to terms with the frustration experienced when conversing with their apparently insensitive partners
The finding that only 3 spouses/partners were completely independent in relation to transport, was not surprising considering that only one subject reported that herihis spouse/partner was able to drive well
Summary
In South Africa, the incidence of traumatic brain injury (TBI), which includes both penetrating injuries from sharp objects as well as closed head injuries from blunt objects is regarded as very high, namely 316 per 100 000 persons (Nell & Brown, 1990). Improved medical care has made it increasingly likely that persons with severe head injuries will survive. A considerable number are likely to remain disabled, placingi a burden on their families (McKinlay, Brooks, Bond, Martinage, & Marshall, 1981). Many patients who appear to be functioning normally may have subtle communicative and social problems (Penn, Jones, Schmaman, Vyncke, Watt, & Fridjhon, 1998). Since these cognitive and behavioural problems may not be immediately visible (Tate, Lulham, Broe, Strettles, & Pfaff, 1989), professionals may be quick to gloss over them, underestimating their impact on the patient's functioning within the family environment
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