Female body image following acquired brain injury

Abstract

PRIMARY OBJECTIVE: To investigate body image concerns and psycho-emotional health in females with acquired brain injury (ABI). RESEARCH DESIGN: Between subjects design. METHODS AND PROCEDURES: Thirteen females with ABI and thirteen matched controls were assessed on a number of variables relating to body image, self-esteem and affect. MAIN OUTCOMES AND RESULTS: Indicated that women with ABI had a different profile of body image dissatisfaction than controls and that in some areas it was significantly worse. The women with ABI had significantly lower self-esteem and higher levels of depression than controls and this related to body image. CONCLUSION: Significant changes in body image and self-concept are potentially damaging to quality of life post-injury and suggest a role for targeted therapeutic work with women with ABI.