Self-criticism and persistent post-concussion symptoms after TBI
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The role of self-criticism in the experience of persistent post-concussion symptoms following traumatic brain injury
IRAS ID
264755
Contact name
Lindsay Prescott
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Lancaster University
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
n/a, n/a
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 8 months, 9 days
Research summary
Post-concussion symptoms (PCS) are a common experience following traumatic brain injury (TBI) and includes the experience of headaches, dizziness, irritability and memory difficulties. In most cases these symptoms resolve within three months although for some, symptoms remain and become persistent (PPCS).Many factors have been shown to contribute to the likelihood of someone developing PPCS including both injury related and non-injury related factors. In a recent review of the evidence base, Silverberg and Iverson (2011) concluded that psychological factors have as much a causal role in the development and maintenance of PPCS as neurobiological factors and gaining a better understanding of these is important for reducing the risks of PPCS. \n\nSome psychological factors involved in PPCS have been investigated and generally focus on an individual’s understanding of their symptoms and expectations for recovery. This has formed the basis for some preventative treatment approaches aimed at normalising the experience of PCS symptoms and providing education. However, for those who still go on to experience PPCS, the evidence for effective treatment is limited. \n\nIn other areas of health psychology, studies have looked at self-criticism as an underlying psychological process that influences many forms of distress including the experience of somatic symptoms such as chronic pain. However, the role of self-criticism in the maintenance of PPCS has not yet been investigated. \n\nThis study will aim to assess whether there are differences in the levels of self-criticism in those with PPCS compared to those who have had a TBI but whose symptoms have resolved. This study will also investigate whether an individual’s self-appraisal of their cognitive functioning and their illness perceptions also plays a role in PPCS and if these variables, together with self-criticism, predict whether a person experiences PPCS or not.\n
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - Bradford Leeds Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
19/YH/0311
Date of REC Opinion
5 Sep 2019
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion