Internet and social media use after traumatic brain injury: A traumatic brain injury model systems study

Model System:

TBI

Reference Type:

Journal

Accession No.:

J76516

Journal:

Journal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation

Year, Volume, Issue, Page(s):

2018 , 33, 1, e9-e17

Publication Website:

Abstract:

Study examined Internet and social media use among adults with moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) and compared demographic and socioeconomic factors associated with Internet use between those with and without TBI. Participants were drawn from 10 TBI Model Systems centers. A total of 337 participants with moderate-to-severe TBI completed an Internet usage survey. Selected demographic factors were compared between Internet users and nonusers with TBI, as well as between Internet users in the TBI sample and the general population (based on published surveys). Results showed that the proportion of Internet users with TBI was high (74 percent) but significantly lower than those in the general population (84 percent). Smartphones were the most prevalent means of Internet access for people with TBI. The majority of Internet users with TBI had a profile account on a social networking site (79 percent), with more than half of the sample reporting multiplatform use of 2 or more social networking sites. Despite the prevalence of Internet use among people with TBI, technological disparities remain in comparison with the general population. The extent of social media use among those with TBI demonstrates the potential of these platforms for social engagement and other purposes. However, further research examining the quality of online activities and identifying potential risk factors of problematic use is recommended.

Author(s):

Baker-Sparr, Christina, Hart, Tessa, Bergquist, Thomas, Bogner, Jennifer, Dreer, Laura, Juengst, Shannon, Mellick, David, O-Neil-Pirozzi, Therese M., Sander, Angelle M., Whiteneck, Gale G.