Being restricted in participation after a traumatic brain injury is negatively associated by passive coping style of the caregiver

Purpose: To examine whether the caregivers' coping style is associated with the functional outcome of the traumatic brain injury ( TBI) patient 1 year post- injury. Method: A cross-sectional study among patients with a TBI, including their primary caregivers. The study included 51 patients aged 17-64 years with a moderate-to-severe TBI and 51 caregivers ( 23 parents and 28 partners) aged 23-67 years. The coping preferences of the caregivers were assessed at minimum 6 and maximum 12 months post- injury, by filling out the Utrecht Coping List ( UCL) and were related to limitations in activity, as measured with the Frenchay Activities Index and with restrictions in participation as measured with the Sickness Impact Profile-68 of TBI patients 1 year post-injury. The patients were interviewed at their homes; the caregivers received and returned the UCL by mail. Results: The patients' age and the caregivers' coping style are independently associated with restrictions in participation 1 year post- injury. Conclusions: A passive coping style of the primary caregiver is negatively associated with the patient's functional outcome in terms of participation in society.