Feedback of brain-imaging findings: Effect on impaired awareness and mood in acquired brain injury

Abstract

PRIMARY OBJECTIVE: To investigate the utility of feedback of brain-imaging findings as an intervention for improving impaired awareness, depression and anxiety levels. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS: A prospective within-subjects repeated measures design was used with an intervention sample of 17 adults with acquired brain injury. Baseline and post-intervention measures included self-report and questionnaire-based self-awareness instruments and self-report questionnaires for depression and anxiety. Participants also completed a range of neuropsychological tests. INTERVENTION: The intervention consisted of a session where a Consultant Neurologist explained the findings of brain scans in terms of pathological findings and possible neurobehavioural outcome. RESULTS: Scores on measures of unawareness and two of three mood measures decreased significantly following the intervention. This improvement was maintained at 2-week follow-up. CONCLUSION: Individuals with an acquired brain injury may benefit from a feedback procedure where the findings of brain scans are presented.