Abstract

This study aims to address the lack of standardized measurement of the effects of trauma on identity. Waterman's (2020) theory, taxonomy, and Trauma Impacts on Identity Functioning Scales were used to evaluate the effects of traumatic brain injury on identity. TBI survivors compared their sense of identity from pre-to-post TBI. Data collection consisted of 2 interviews and participants were compensated with $60 gift cards. Participants (N = 15, Mage = 52.67) were recruited from several language disorder groups. In terms of identity functioning post-brain injury, participant reports of their experiences varied quite a bit from identity loss to a strengthened identity. There was a significant increase in identity distress from pre- to post-brain injury as well. Time since trauma was not significantly correlated with identity functioning nor with identity distress change scores. This suggests the need for future research to determine which factors influence whether and why survivors' experience post-traumatic identity disruption and/or growth, as it appears that time alone is not sufficient.

Notes

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Graduation Date

2022

Semester

Spring

Advisor

Berman, Steven

Degree

Master of Arts (M.A.)

College

College of Sciences

Department

Psychology

Degree Program

Clinical Psychology; Research Track

Format

application/pdf

Identifier

CFE0009081; DP0026414

URL

https://purls.library.ucf.edu/go/DP0026414

Language

English

Release Date

May 2022

Length of Campus-only Access

None

Access Status

Masters Thesis (Open Access)

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