Traumatic Brain Injury and the Family: the Influence of Family Communication Style, Perception of Uncertainty and Social Support on Effective Coping Abilities

Date of Graduation

Spring 1998

Degree

Master of Arts in Communication

Department

Communication

Committee Chair

Charlene Berquist

Abstract

This is an exploratory study of traumatic brain injury and how family communication style, perception of uncertainty and social support affect the family's ability to cope effectively. This study utilizes a qualitative method of research supported with quantitative measures to indicate family type. While there has been a plethora of research on traumatic brain injury, little has focused on how different families reduce uncertainty using social support. Data obtained through in-depth interviews was analyzed to produce reoccurring themes that answered the research questions guiding this study. Results indicated that social support does reduce the uncertainty of traumatic brain injury and lack of specific types of support lead to ineffective coping by family members.

Subject Categories

Communication

Copyright

© Barbara Rae Hanson

Citation-only

Dissertation/Thesis

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