Traumatic brain injury: family response and outcome

Family outcome following traumatic brain injury has been the subject of investigation for nearly two decades. Researchers have reported on samples from Israel, Scotland, Denmark, England, and the United States. Cultural diversity as well as differences in design, assessment methods, injury characteristics, and definitions have contributed to difficulties establishing definitive conclusions. Findings indicate that patients' levels of emotional and personality disturbances are associated with levels of family disturbance, and are relatively more significant than physical disability. Undeniably, the long-term sequelae of injury have a long-term negative impact on families. Unfortunately, little has been done to establish the nature of family outcomes for patients younger than age 17, siblings, and less than severe injuries. Recent advances including development of valid measurement tools, definitions established through consensus, and multi-center collaborative research networks are promising and contribute to the likelihood of imminent progress.