An experimental study of resilience and its effect on simulated persistent postconcussion symptoms

Background Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is a significant public health concern. Several factors contribute to symptom persistence, including potentially modifiable psychological factors. This study focused on resilience as a predictor of simulated persistent postconcussion symptoms (PPCS). Methods Participants were randomly assigned to a mTBI vignette condition with (n = 96) or without resilience-activation (control, n = 95). PPCS was measured using the Rivermead Post-Concussion Symptoms Questionnaire. The potential for a moderated relationship was explored using a measure of emotional distress (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale). Results Resilience, as measured by the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale, was successfully manipulated via the vignette (resilience activation > controls). Hierarchical linear regression (N = 191) demonstrated a significant negative association between group and PPCS, with resilience significantly accounting for 3.27% of unique variance in PPCS. The interaction between predictor variables did not significantly contribute to the overall variance in PPCS. Conclusions Findings are consistent with prior correlational studies of resilience and PPCS, with the present study also isolating a specific role for resilience as distinct from emotional distress. Psychological resilience appears to be a promising target for PPCS reduction.