Enhancing self-advocacy after traumatic brain injury: A randomized controlled trial

Model System:

TBI

Reference Type:

Journal article

Accession No.:

J89973

Journal:

Journal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation

Year, Volume, Issue, Page(s):

2022 , 37, 2, 114-124

Publication Website:

Abstract:

Study evaluated the efficacy of a novel intervention aimed at enhancing self-advocacy in individuals living with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Sixty-seven community-dwelling adults, 9 months or more post-TBI, were randomized to (1) a manualized group intervention, Self-Advocacy for Independent Life, addressing the self-efficacy beliefs, knowledge, and skills for self-advocacy (treatment group) or (2) no intervention (control group). The following measures were administered at baseline, posttreatment, 6-week follow-up, and 12-week follow-up: Self-Advocacy Scale (primary outcome), General Self-Efficacy Scale, Personal Advocacy Activity Scale, and Satisfaction With Life Scale. The treatment group showed significantly greater improvement than controls from baseline to posttreatment on the primary measure of self-efficacy specific to self-advocacy after TBI. Similar improvements were found on secondary measures of general self-efficacy and satisfaction with life from baseline to posttreatment. However, significant between-groups gains for primary and secondary measures were not maintained over 6- and 12-week follow-up. Individuals living with chronic TBI sequelae can increase self-efficacy specific to self-advocacy, general self-efficacy, and satisfaction with life, through a TBI-specific intervention aimed at empowering individuals to advocate for their own needs and wishes. Sustaining gains over time may require ongoing community collaboration and support.

Author(s):