Exploring Children’s Experiences Following Sport-Related Concussions
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Keywords

Mental health
sport-related concussions
challenges
protective factors
resiliency

How to Cite

MuellerM., Schmidt L., WrightS., Ali RazaI., PatroG., RanaM., & VolpeR. (2022). Exploring Children’s Experiences Following Sport-Related Concussions: Identifying and Overcoming Emotional Challenges and Adversity Following Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). International Journal of Child and Adolescent Resilience, 9(1), 47-60. https://doi.org/10.54488/ijcar.2022.301

Abstract

Objectives: To gain a better understanding of the emotional and mental experiences of child and adolescent athletes following a sport-related concussion, in order to better support these athletes throughout recovery.

Methods: Adolescents (n=21) ages 15-24 years who self-reported experiencing a sport-related concussion under the age of 18, participated in a retrospective, single group, qualitative analysis based on semi-structured interviews. Thematic Content Analysis was used to identify themes amongst participants’ responses.

Results: The results indicated three overarching domains with underlying themes and subthemes within: (1) Acute Challenges Post-Concussion (i.e., difficulty accepting unknowns, self-image and mattering, school, missing out and isolation, feelings of hopelessness), (2) Coping with Acute Challenges Post-Concussion (i.e., support, previous concussions, prioritizing mental health), and (3) Take-Aways Post-Concussion (i.e., learning about injury, self-growth, long lasting impacts on overall health).

Conclusion: Child and adolescent athletes face numerous emotional challenges post-concussion and following recovery; however, there are many ways in which children are resilient and cope with these challenges.

Implications: It is critical that the knowledge of child and adolescent athletes’ challenges post-concussion, as well as the successful coping mechanisms and protective factors utilized throughout recovery are used to develop better preventative and interventive strategies, in order to support the athletes’ well-being post-concussion.

https://doi.org/10.54488/ijcar.2022.301
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