The Role of Helplessness and Hopelessness in Somatic and Cognitive Symptoms in Persistent Postconcussive Syndrome

Abstract

Traumatic brain injuries typically involve various physical and psychological symptoms, which bidirectionally interact to impact brain recovery. Therefore, one may consider the impact these symptoms have on one’s recovery from mild traumatic brain injuries, and how their interactions may affect persistent concussion symptoms. Thus, the goal of the present study was to determine if there was a relationship between a sense of helplessness and/or hopelessness and several somatic and cognitive complaints (as measured by various MMPI-2-RF scales) within a sample of individuals whose symptomatology was consistent with persistent postconcussive syndrome. Additionally, this study examined if assigned sex was a factor in these relationships. Results demonstrated a sense of helplessness and/or hopelessness was related to increased somatic and cognitive complaints. Alternately, assigned sex was not a significant moderating variable. These findings suggest future research and interventions focused on increasing an internal locus of control, positive coping, and hope may play an important role in recovery from mild traumatic brain injury.