Social networks as support interventions following traumatic brain injury

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Rauch, Robert J.^{a; *} | Ferry, Susan M.^b

Affiliations: [a] Brain Injury Rehabilitation Services, Down Lisburn Health and Social Services Trust, Thompson House Hospital, Lisburn BT28 3BP, Northern Ireland | [b] School of Psychology, Queen's University, Belfast BT1 7NN, Northern Ireland

Correspondence: [*] Thompson House Hospital, 19-21 Magheralave Road, Lisburn BT28 3BP, Northern Ireland. Tel.: +44 0044 2892 665646; Fax: +44 0044 2892 667681; E-mail: robert_rauch@dltrust.n-i.nhs.uk

Abstract: The social network and social support needs of people following traumatic brain injury (TBI) are considerable and related to both health outcomes and community integration. We review what is known of the structure of social networks following TBI and explore the relationship of these networks to social support and health. Social network interventions in TBI are described and discussed. Empirically based suggestions are given for the development of interventions based on culturally sensitive programmes which develop social networks and support in a naturalistic manner.

Keywords: TBI, social networks, social support, rehabilitation

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-2001-16103

Journal: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 16, no. 1, pp. 11-16, 2001