Misconceptions about brain injury: a survey replication study.
OBJECTIVE
The researchers sought to update information about the public's knowledge about brain injury and to document progress made toward correcting misconceptions.


METHODS
Survey replication.


METHODS
Three hundred and eighteen respondents from the lay public answered questions about general brain injury knowledge, coma and unconsciousness, memory deficits and brain injury recovery. Chi-square analyses revealed significant differences among respondents based on age, gender, education and personal experience with brain injury or brain injury survivors. Findings were also compared with those reported by previous researchers administering similar questionnaires.


RESULTS
Misconceptions persist regarding some brain injury sequelae. Although most respondents knew general information, large numbers reported incorrect beliefs about memory problems, coma and unconsciousness and recovery.


CONCLUSIONS
Despite the frequency with which it occurs, the general public persists in holding misconceptions about brain injury. Greater public awareness is necessary to prompt appropriate health care funding and rehabilitative service decisions.
Hux
Karen
K
Barkley Memorial Center for Special Education and Communication Disorders, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68506, USA. khux1@unl.edu
Schram
Charisse Deuel
CD
Goeken
Tracy
T
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000523:psychology*; D016009:Chi-Square Distribution; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D020127:Recovery of Function; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires