Putting the Pieces Together: Preliminary Efficacy of a Web-Based Family Intervention for Children with Traumatic Brain Injury

Authors:
  • CWChristopher Wolfe
    Christopher Wolfe
  • TBTanya Maines Brown
    Tanya Maines Brown
  • JPJohn P. Pestian
    John P. Pestian
Open Access
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Abstract
Objective To report preliminary efficacy data from a Web-based family problem-solving intervention to improve parent and child adaptation. Method Eight parents and six children with moderate to severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) who were injured more than 15 months earlier (M = 16 months) participated in the intervention. Families were given computers, Web cameras, and high-speed Internet access. Weekly videoconferences with the therapist were conducted after they completed self-guided Web exercises on problem-solving, communication, and antecedent behavior management strategies. Results Paired t tests comparing pre- and post-intervention scores revealed significant improvements in injury-related burden, parental psychiatric symptoms, depression, and parenting stress. There were also significant reductions in antisocial behaviors in the injured child, but not in self-reported depressive symptoms. Conclusions These findings suggest that a computer-based intervention may successfully be used to improve both parent and child outcomes following TBI in children.

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