A multimodal support group with Hispanic traumatic brain injury survivors.
OBJECTIVE
(a) To design and pilot a culturally sensitive and neuropsychologically informed support group addressing barriers to emotional, social, and vocational adjustment among high-level functioning Hispanic/Latino TBI survivors. (b) To determine efficacy through outcome measures.


METHODS
Ten-week multimodal, culturally sensitive support group focusing on TBI sequelae education, relaxation techniques, coping skills development, behavioral goal setting and monitoring, and family participation.


METHODS
Six Spanish-speaking high-level functioning TBI survivors aged 20-42.


METHODS
Outpatient neuropsychological assessment and treatment center.


METHODS
Beck Hopelessness Scale; Purpose in Life Test; Perceived Self-Regulatory Ability Inventory.


RESULTS
Participants' sense of personal destiny and feelings of hopelessness improved, as evidenced by objective measures and self-report. A telephone interview a year later indicated that gains had been maintained, and most participants were vocationally active.


CONCLUSIONS
Results underscore the importance of considering linguistic and ethnic factors in developing support groups.
Armengol
C G
CG
Counseling Psychology, Rehabilitation and Special Education Northeastern University Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA.
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000208:ethnology* / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D018864:Cultural Diversity; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006630:Hispanic or Latino / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010865:Pilot Projects; D012657:Self-Help Groups / Q000592:standards*; D017741:Survivors / Q000523:psychology*; D016896:Treatment Outcome