Sports-related brain injury research: methodological difficulties associated with ambiguous terminology.
A basic premise underlying sound methodological research is that it is based on constructs that have a sound operational definition. Failure to do so impedes comparison with other relevant literature. In sports-related brain injury research, the varied criteria and inconsistent use of the term 'concussion' and its interchangeability with other generic terms such as mild/minor head injury, and mild brain injury exemplifies such a situation. This paper will background the issues involved and provide rationale to support a call for tightening the use of terminology in the area.
Wills
S M
SM
School of Psychology, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand.
Leathem
J M
JM
D001265:Athletic Injuries / Q000150:complications*; D001924:Brain Concussion / Q000145:classification*; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000145:classification*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012107:Research Design; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D009626:Terminology as Topic