Web-based training in family advocacy.
OBJECTIVE
To examine the efficacy of an interactive multimedia intervention that teaches advocacy skills to people caring for a family member with traumatic brain injury.


METHODS
A total of 201 individuals (control, n = 97; treatment, n = 104) providing support to a family member with traumatic brain injury.


METHODS
Randomized controlled study.


METHODS
Caregiver knowledge, skill application, behavioral intention, and overall life satisfaction.


METHODS
The Brain Injury Partners program, a Web site focused on advocacy, communication skills, and resources for families affected by brain injury.


RESULTS
Univariate analyses revealed that compared with the control group, the Brain Injury Partners group reported statistically significant higher adjusted means for application, knowledge, and attitudes scales immediately postintervention and at follow-up. Satisfaction with life, assessed at follow-up but not posttest, was not significant.


CONCLUSIONS
This study demonstrated the effectiveness of a Web-based intervention to teach effective skills to caregivers advocating for a family member with traumatic brain injury.
Communication Disorders and Sciences, College of Education, University of Oregon (Dr McLaughlin); Oregon Center for Applied Science (Dr Glang and Mss Vondy Beaver and Keen); and Oregon Research Institute (Dr Gau), Eugene, Oregon.
Karen A
KA
McLaughlin
Ann
A
Glang
Sherry Vondy
SV
Beaver
Jeff M
JM
Gau
Stacie
S
Keen
D000328:Adult; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D017028:Caregivers / Q000193:education*; D003194:Computer-Assisted Instruction; D005190:Family; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010344:Patient Advocacy / Q000193:education*; D010549:Personal Satisfaction