Perspectives of caregiver-survivor dyads following TBI: A case series

Author

Shayleen BrennanFollow

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License.

Date of Graduation

Spring 2019

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science (BS)

Department

Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders

Advisor(s)

Cynthia R. O'Donoghue

Cara Meixner

Abstract

A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is trauma to the brain triggered by an external force that causes the brain to crash violently against the skull and disrupt normal functioning. Following a TBI, the survivor often faces challenges that compromise independence. These can include challenges in communication, cognition, and overall physical functioning. Resultantly, reliance upon the individual’s loved ones as both advocates and caregivers is essential to functional recovery. This qualitative study investigates the experiences reported between both survivors and their primary caregivers. Using a qualitative approach, exploration of the convergent and divergent perspectives between survivors and caregivers post-TBI were researched. Structured interviews with TBI survivors and their primary caregiver were conducted during separate interview sessions in order to eliminate influence on responding answers. The interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed to examine themes that emerge based upon participants’ reported experiences. By better understanding the unique perspectives of survivors and caregivers, healthcare providers will be more equipped at providing enhanced care to individuals with TBIs and their caregivers.

Recommended Citation

Brennan, Shayleen, "Perspectives of caregiver-survivor dyads following TBI: A case series" (2019). Senior Honors Projects, 2010-2019. 640.
https://commons.lib.jmu.edu/honors201019/640