Can Preinjury Adversity Affect Postinjury Responses? A 5-Year Prospective, Multi-Study Analysis

Area of Science:

• Sports Psychology
• Injury Rehabilitation
• Adversity Research

Background:

• Integrated model of response to sport injury (Wiese-Bjornstal et al., 1998)
• Biopsychosocial model of challenge and threat states (Blascovich, 2008)

Purpose of the Study:

• Examine the long-term effects of preinjury adversity on postinjury responses.
• Investigate how preinjury adversity influences coping strategies and psychological well-being after injury.
• Understand the mechanisms underlying differential responses to sport injury based on prior adversity levels.

Main Methods:

• Prospective, repeated measures design (Study 1) with 846 non-injured participants, followed by 143 injured athletes assessed over time.
• Quantitative analysis (MANOVAs) comparing psychological responses and coping strategies across low, moderate, and high preinjury adversity groups.
• Qualitative thematic analysis of interviews with 18 injured athletes to explore the 'why' and 'how' of preinjury adversity's impact.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in psychological responses and coping strategies were found across preinjury adversity groups at multiple time points post-injury.
• Athletes with moderate preinjury adversity reported fewer negative psychological responses and utilized more adaptive coping strategies (problem- and emotion-focused).
• High preinjury adversity was linked to being overwhelmed and unable to cope, while low preinjury adversity correlated with underdeveloped coping resources.

Conclusions:

• Preinjury adversity significantly moderates athletes' responses to sport injury and their rehabilitation journey.
• Moderate levels of adversity may foster resilience and adaptive coping, leading to more positive postinjury outcomes.
• Interventions should consider individual adversity histories to tailor support for optimal athlete recovery and psychological well-being.