The Role of the Athletic Trainer

Psychology of Injury

Today’s objectives…

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Identify preceding conditions which may predispose to injury

Describe how an athlete may respond psychologically to injuries

Identify physiological responses to stress

Introduction

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Devastating nature of injuriesFinancial concerns IdentitySelf-esteem

Injury Antecedents

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PhysicalEnvironmentalPsychological

Psychological Factors

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Personality traits Inappropriate attitudes Stress levels Risk takers

Psychological Response

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Kubler-Ross model1. 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

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Denial & isolation- Denies seriousness of injury

Kubler-Ross Model

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Anger - Aware of seriousness of injury- Why me? Why now?- Angry at who?- May become demanding & difficult

Kubler-Ross Model

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Bargaining- Usually when anger subsides- May be reflected in prayer- May try to negotiate- Promises...

Kubler-Ross Model

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Depression- Occurs if activity is limited or not allowed- Moody, withdrawn- No point in exercising- Motivation = BIG challenge

Kubler-Ross Model

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Acceptance- resigned to

fact that hard work is necessary to return to safe participation

Other thoughts...

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Each individual reacts differentlyProgress at different ratesDifferent order of stagesMay skip stagesMay plateau and not progress

Signs of Poor Adaptation

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Malingering on little issuesGuilt may try to rush thingsWithdrawn from significant othersRapid mood swingsRepeatedly coming back too soon & re-

injury

Goals to Facilitate Recovery

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Set realistic expectationsFoster social supportDevelop self-confidence (athlete & txt)Education process

Coming up…

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Education & credential requirementsAthletic trainerPhysician AssistantPhysical TherapistParamedic