Citation

Van Bost G, Van Damme S, Crombez G. Neuropsychol. Rehabil. 2019; ePub(ePub): 1-15.

Affiliation

Department of Experimental-Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences , Ghent University , Ghent , Belgium.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2019, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/09602011.2019.1608265

PMID

31030643

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: After an acquired brain injury (ABI), the achievement of previous life goals may no longer be feasible. This study examined whether self-reported disengagement from previous goals and reengagement towards new, more feasible goals, are associated with higher quality of life (QOL) and life satisfaction. We also examined whether acceptance mediated these relationships.

METHODS: Eighty-two individuals (18-68 years of age) with an ABI completed a battery of questionnaires. We investigated the relations between goal disengagement and reengagement on the one hand, and general QOL, disease-specific QOL, life satisfaction and acceptance, on the other hand. Rehabilitation psychologists provided estimates of self-awareness and the extent of motor, communicative and cognitive impairment.

RESULTS: Goal reengagement, but not goal disengagement, was positively associated with mental QOL and life satisfaction, after statistically controlling for demographic and impairments. Acceptance mediated the relationship between goal reengagement on the one hand, and mental QOL and life satisfaction, on the other hand.

CONCLUSION: After an ABI, reengagement in feasible goals is more important in explaining mental well-being and life satisfaction than disengagement from unattainable goals. Interventions aimed at identifying and pursuing new, feasible goals may be more helpful than strategies focusing on the loss of blocked goals.

Language: en

Keywords

Acquired brain injury; acceptance; goal adjustment; life satisfaction; quality of life