A value-based intervention for clients with acquired brain injury
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A value-based intervention for clients with acquired brain injury (ABI) within inpatient neurorehabilitation.
IRAS ID
242925
Contact name
Elizabeth Harris
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Royal Holloway University of London
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
N/A, N/A
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 11 months, 21 days
Research summary
Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) is associated with psychological distress, disability, and reduced engagement in meaningful activities.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a change oriented behavioural therapy that supports people to carry out meaningful behaviour, despite difficult circumstances (Hayes et al., 2006). It has been recommended for individuals with brain injury and is currently supported by limited but promising evidence (Whiting et al., 2017; Gillanders & Gillanders, 2014; Sylvester, 2011). Unfortunately, the conclusions from these studies are not generalisable due to limitations of reduced methodological quality, small sample size or missing data.Taking this on board, this study will use a single-case experimental design (SCED) to achieve results of a higher quality. As such, participants will be randomised to begin the study’s therapy either 2, 3 or 4 weeks after a baseline period. The therapy will be based solely on the values components of ACT. These components have been recommended for this heterogeneous client group given their practical and adaptable nature in practice. Values are personal, purposefully chosen life directions; if one value-directed goal cannot be reached, an alternative can be worked towards that follows the same value. The therapy will take approximately six weeks but this will be adapted, along with session delivery, to suit individual needs.
The study will show whether there is benefit from adding values to goal-setting, a core procedure within neurorehabilitation. As guided by previous research, it will measure whether the values-based goal-setting therapy will increase value-based behaviour, and improve mood, quality of life, and psychological adjustment to ABI.
6 clients will be recruited from two inpatient neurorehabilitation services in London: Royal Hospital for Neuro-Disability and Queen Mary’s Hospital. Suitable adults will be able to understand and communicate information and decide independently to take part.
The study is expected to last until May 2019.
REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - Sheffield Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
18/YH/0214
Date of REC Opinion
31 May 2018
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion