Spousal boundary ambiguity in acute neurological conditions v1.0
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Predictors and psychological outcomes associated with perceived boundary ambiguity in families affected by acute, non-progressive neurological conditions
IRAS ID
314109
Contact name
Mariann Kovacs
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Oxford
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 8 months, 30 days
Research summary
Sudden-onset, acute neurological events, such as traumatic brain injury (TBI) or stroke, are a major cause of disability which put considerable strain on the individual and their families as they navigate adjustment. Research suggests that a common experience following the acute event is ambiguous, unresolved loss which often manifests as boundary ambiguity (BA) in the family system. BA is defined by lack of clarity around family membership and the roles within the family system. It is associated with adverse outcomes both for family members and patients with neurological conditions, including psychological distress and family conflict.
The research project aims to increase our understanding of BA in the context of sudden-onset, acute neurological events. Spouses of individuals affected by a non-progressive neurological condition will be recruited with the help of clinicians working across Oxford University Hospital sites as well as via relevant UK-based charities and social media. Participants will be asked to fill in a set of questionnaires on two occasions with a 3-month interval in-between. These questionnaires will allow us to quantify BA and examine its predictors and how it is implicated in longer-term psychological and relational outcomes, as perceived by the partners of affected individuals. Results will contribute to our understanding of difficulties following sudden-onset, acute neurological events and could have clinical implications for the recommended treatments or the services offered.
REC name
South East Scotland REC 01
REC reference
23/SS/0010
Date of REC Opinion
22 Mar 2023
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion