Managing sense of self following acquired brain injury

The thesis focuses on understanding positive adjustment to acquired brain injury (ABl), including key predictors and processes. Understanding the potential for positive change will help individuals to live meaningful lives and adjust views of self despite the negative consequences of brain injury. Part l, the Literature Review, examines what is known about psychological adjustment and post traumatic growth following an injury and considers this in the context of rehabilitation practice. It also examines the qualitative literature relating to the experiences of emotional adjustment post-ABI. This includes themes relating to adjusting to losses, identity adjustment and coping. Part 2, the Empirical Paper, is a qualitative study investigating the self-narratives of individuals in the early stages of brain injury rehabilitation, with the aim of exploring the ways in which they adjust their view of self. All participants reported an altered sense of self, characterised by no longer recognising their own limits and abilities, seeing themselves as vulnerable, lacking in control and disconnected from the world. At the same time individuals appeared to hold a view of self in control through taking action, developing self-understanding, noticing events that reinforce a sense of 'recovering self, as well as finding new meaning in the experience. Part 3, the Critical Appraisal, reflects on the research process, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses. Reference is made to the limitations of interviewing individuals with severe brain injuries. Finally, epistemological and philosophical issues related to scientifically investigating the construct of 'identity' are considered