'I kind of figured it out': the views and experiences of people with traumatic brain injury (TBI) in using social media-self-determination for participation and inclusion online.
Melissa Brunner, Stuart Palmer, Leanne Togher and 1 others
PMID 29873159WHAT IT FOUND
People with TBI used social media to stay connected, but many lurked, felt overwhelmed or fatigued, and learned platforms by trial and error.
They lacked direct support and needed prompt, relevant help.
Key findings
01Participants used social media mainly to connect with family and friends.
02Eight participants preferred to lurk rather than post, and all had figured out how to use multiple platforms through trial and error.
03Eight participants found platforms confusing or difficult to navigate, and five reported cognitive fatigue.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for OTsWhat it means for SLPs
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What it does not show
Thirteen people were interviewed, so the study cannot show how common these experiences are among all adults with TBI. Participants were recruited through social media and a TBI research register, so people who use social media less often or lack internet access may not be represented. The group varied in age and injury, and the study did not compare experiences by age or injury site. Only six of 13 participants verified or amended their transcripts. It is a qualitative study, so it reports themes rather than measured effects.
Declared interests
The supplied publication types list non-U.S. government research support. The article text does not report a funding statement or author conflicts.
The easy way to misread this
Do not conclude that social media improves communication or that any support works. The study describes experiences of 13 people and did not test an intervention.