Article

Acquired brain injuries (ABI) can have a major impact on social participation,
causing increased social isolation and emotional distress for people with the
injury and their family members. Multifamily Group Therapy (MFGT) provides
information, resources, problem-solving strategies and opportunities for social
networking for families where one member has an illness. By qualitatively
examining the experience of group participation from the perspectives of both
individuals with ABI and their family members, the present study aimed to
elucidate the processes underlying and factors influencing success of facilitated
MFG programmes with families impacted by ABI. Following participation in the
12-week MFGT, 29 individuals with brain injury and 30 caregivers participated in
90-minute, semi-structured focus groups. The overarching theme emerging from the
transcripts was that of "Finding One's Place", with sub-themes of Connectedness,
Identity, and Knowledge and Understanding. The MFGT experience made a
contribution to participants' efforts to find their place in the world after an
ABI. This was enhanced by connection with others within the group, sharing
experiences, the development of self and family identity, and the gaining of
knowledge and understanding. These findings consolidate a growing literature,
which points to the importance of "Reconstruction of a place in the world" and
"Reconstruction of personhood" in ABI recovery.

Langue : ANGLAIS