Associations between illness perceptions, coping styles and outcome after mild traumatic brain injury: Preliminary results from a cohort study

PURPOSE: The objective of this study was to examine associations between injury perceptions, coping, distress and outcome after mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI). DESIGN: A prospective observational study with repeated measures. This study reports results from the first of two study visits. PARTICIPANTS: Participants (n = 147) were recruited within 3 months following presentation to a concussion clinic or an emergency department setting. METHODS: Clinical and demographic information was collected and participants completed a range of questionnaires (Revised Illness Perceptions Questionnaire, Brief COPE, Rivermead Post-Concussion Symptoms Questionnaire, Rivermead Follow-Up Questionnaire and HADS). Associations between independent variables and outcome were examined using odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS: Preliminary results suggested participants endorsing stronger beliefs about the injury identity (p < 0.05) and emotional impact (p < 0.01) had significantly greater odds of poor outcome at 3 months. There were also associations between higher educational attainment (p < 0.05), using active coping strategies (p < 0.06) and poor outcome. CONCLUSIONS: These variables appeared important determinants of outcome early after MTBI and may help identify those at risk for slow recovery. Current reassurance-based interventions may be improved by targeting such variables.