@article{ref1,
title="Parent knowledge and perceptions of concussion related to youth football",
journal="Curēus",
year="2018",
author="Rieger, Brian and Lewandowski, Lawrence and Potts, Heather and Potter, Kyle and Chin, Lawrence S.",
volume="10",
number="3",
pages="e2268-e2268",
abstract="Introduction There is increased concern about concussion in youth athletes, yet there is little research on parent knowledge of concussion. <br><br>PURPOSE  The purpose of the current study was to investigate attitudes to and knowledge of concussion among parents of youth American football players. <br><br>METHODS We surveyed 180 parents/guardians of youth football players, ages 5-12, regarding their knowledge and beliefs concerning concussion. <br><br>RESULTS We found that the vast majority of respondents (86%) had confidence in their ability to recognize concussions. Yet, a significant number also held misconceptions about concussions, such as 'too much sleep' (48%) or 'eating certain foods' (26%) make concussion symptoms worse. Most (82%) had not heard of the Zurich guidelines, and less than half (44%) were aware that sustained mental activity could worsen symptoms. Parents were concerned about their child sustaining a concussion, but a substantial minority also reported 'serious concern' about their children losing playing time or their position.  Discussion Results are somewhat positive in terms of parents' general knowledge of concussions; yet, response variability and misconceptions point to a continued need for concussion education for parents. Medical professionals can play an important role in informing families about concussion symptoms, management, and recovery.   Keywords: American football; <p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="2168-8184",
doi="10.7759/cureus.2268",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.7759/cureus.2268"
}