Citation

Gfroerer SD, Wade SL, Wu M. Brain Inj. 2008; 22(9): 649-656.

Affiliation

The University of Dayton, Dayton, OH, USA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2008, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/02699050802227162

PMID

18608201

Abstract

Primary objective: To determine whether parents believe schools provided necessary support to their children who sustained traumatic brain injuries. Research design: Interview, to determine parent perceptions. Methods and procedure: Sixty-six primary caregivers of school-age children who experienced a TBI within the previous 2 years were interviewed regarding what types of special support were needed by and provided for their children during the 3 months immediately following school re-entry. They then rated how difficult it was to obtain support or services from the school and how satisfied they were with the support or services. Main outcomes and results: The majority of participants did not perceive the need for school-based services, even when the injury was severe. Almost all students whose parents perceived a need for an adjusted schedule were granted that accommodation, but few students received school-based counselling or behavioural support. Conclusions: Results indicated that participants perceived relatively few school-based supports, particularly given the actual academic, behavioural and social challenges experienced by children who have sustained a TBI. Schools and hospitals must take steps to ensure appropriate post-head injury support services.

Language: en