Citation

Moreno-Lopez A, Holttum S, Oddy M. Brain Inj. 2011; 25(12): 1221-1233.

Affiliation

Kent and Medway NHS and Social Partnership Trust , Tonbridge, Kent , England.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.3109/02699052.2011.608205

PMID

21932996

Abstract

Primary objective: The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of adolescent offspring following parental acquired brain injury (ABI) and the role of supportive relationships in offspring coping. Design: The study was qualitative using grounded theory methodology. Methods and procedure: Nine adolescent offspring of parents with ABI were interviewed individually. For the purposes of triangulation, three of their noninjured parents were interviewed individually. Results: Findings indicate that following the shock of the ABI, adolescents appeared to go through a dynamic process of reevaluation of life priorities, a sudden realization of the fragility of life, and an increase in their appreciation of the family's needs. The study's findings also show that adolescent offspring can have a protective role in the family, assisting the family with the long-term challenges that ABI may present. Alternative parental figures and peer friendships appeared to have a central role for participants, providing a sense of normality and stability to their lives, and acted as an important connection with their lives prior to their parents' ABI. Conclusions: Findings indicated that supportive relationships were crucial as a coping strategy for adolescent offspring. Assessment of adolescents' coping strategies and support networks should be conducted by the best-placed clinician working with the family. Preventative interventions are recommended. A strength-based view of the adolescent may be beneficial.

Language: en