Qualitative investigations into the experiences of family members affected by childhood acquired brain injury

Davies, Lauren (2024) Qualitative investigations into the experiences of family members affected by childhood acquired brain injury. Doctoral thesis, University of East Anglia.

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Abstract

This thesis aimed to explore the lived experiences of families following child brain injury. For the systematic review, family experiences following child traumatic brain injury (CTBI) were explored using 12 qualitative studies involving different family members. Results detailed three overarching themes: ‘Grateful for the Good’, ‘The Weight of it All’, and ‘Just Not Good Enough’. Within these findings, gender, culture, and family role highlighted how experiences can alter dependant on these contextual differences. The empirical paper investigated parents’ narratives following child acquired brain injury (C-ABI) using a creative method of wool and stones. Three core narratives were developed: 1) Suffering and Sacrifice: Throwing Stones 2) Relational Rupture and Harmony: The Forgotten Rock 3) Positive Discovery: The Shinier Stone. While sharing their stories, parents’ use of materials fluctuated. Some used materials to express emotions and represent family structures and personalities, whilst others either absent-mindedly engaged with materials, or interacted with them very little. The work of the thesis contributes to advancing understanding of family’s experiences post child brain injury, with novel insights into the use of creative materials alongside stories. The findings could inform development of novel qualitative methods or opportunities for family support however, further research is needed.

Item Type:	Thesis (Doctoral)
Faculty \ School:	Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences > Norwich Medical School
Depositing User:	Nicola Veasy
Date Deposited:	07 Nov 2024 11:59
Last Modified:	07 Nov 2024 11:59
URI:	https://ueaeprints.uea.ac.uk/id/eprint/97563
DOI:

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