Predictors of family system functioning after brain injury.

OBJECTIVES

To identify predictors of family system functioning after acquired brain injury (ABI).

RESEARCH DESIGN

Retrospective design.

METHODS AND PROCEDURES

Data on ABI-related impairments, level of awareness, neuropsychological functioning, caregiver strain and family system functioning were extracted from the files of 66 individuals with ABI and 148 family members who had enrolled in a community-based support programme.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND RESULTS

Individuals with ABI, mothers, spouses, siblings and the family as a unit reported significant distress in family functioning compared to the norm. Higher caregiver strain and client gender (i.e. female) were predictive of poorer family system functioning. Neither ABI impairments nor neuropsychological variables were correlated with family functioning.

CONCLUSIONS

The effects of ABI extend beyond the injured person and primary caregiver. The need for a family systems approach to family intervention after ABI is supported. Implications for practice and future research are discussed.