The Role of the Athletic Trainer Psychology of Injury
Today’s objectives… 10/21/ Identify preceding conditions which may predispose to injury Describe how an athlete may respond psychologically to injuries Identify physiological responses to stress
Introduction 10/21/ Devastating nature of injuries Financial concerns Identity Self-esteem
Injury Antecedents 10/21/ Physical Environmental Psychological
Psychological Factors 10/21/ Personality traits Inappropriate attitudes Stress levels Risk takers
Psychological Response 10/21/ Kubler-Ross model 1. Five theoretical stages individuals progress through when confronted with grief 2. Easily adapted to an individual who sustained an injury
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Kubler-Ross Model 10/21/ Denial & isolation - Denies seriousness of injury
Kubler-Ross Model 10/21/ Anger - Aware of seriousness of injury - Why me? Why now? - Angry at who? - May become demanding & difficult
Kubler-Ross Model 10/21/ Bargaining - Usually when anger subsides - May be reflected in prayer - May try to negotiate - Promises...
Kubler-Ross Model 10/21/ Depression - Occurs if activity is limited or not allowed - Moody, withdrawn - No point in exercising - Motivation = BIG challenge
Kubler-Ross Model 10/21/ Acceptance - resigned to fact that hard work is necessary to return to safe participation
Other thoughts... 10/21/ Each individual reacts differently Progress at different rates Different order of stages May skip stages May plateau and not progress
Signs of Poor Adaptation 10/21/ Malingering on little issues Guilt may try to rush things Withdrawn from significant others Rapid mood swings Repeatedly coming back too soon & re-injury
Goals to Facilitate Recovery 10/21/ Set realistic expectations Foster social support Develop self-confidence (athlete & txt) Education process
Coming up… 10/21/ Education & credential requirements Athletic trainer Physician Assistant Physical Therapist Paramedic