Research study on how youth with acquired brain injuries (ABI) use digital and online communication for social participation

Summary

Our research is exploring how youth with acquired brain injuries (ABI) use digital communication like social media, gaming, and texting. We aim to understand the benefits and challenges of online and digital communication after an ABI, and how these platforms may support their social connections.

Researcher(s)

  • Shannon Scratch, Ph.D., C. Psych, Principal Investigator
  • Lyn Turkstra, Ph.D., Reg. CASLPO, School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University, Co-Investigator
  • Lisa Kakonge, M.Sc., PH.D. Candidate, Student Investigator  

Call to action

Are you a youth diagnosed with an acquired brain injury (ABI) who engage in texting, social media, or gaming to communicate with others? Consider participating in our research study to help us understand online communication in youth like you!

Who can participate

We are looking for youth aged 13 to 21 who have an acquired brain injury (ABI) of any severity, actively use computer-mediated communication like texting, social media, and gaming both before and after their ABI, can fluently speak English (self-reported), and are currently or have been in rehabilitation in an outpatient or community setting.

Funding agency

McMaster University (Co-Investigator’s start-up fund)

What's involved

Youth will take part in one study session where they'll complete surveys about their use of digital platforms like social media and online games, their social activities, and how they communicate. This session (weekdays and weekends possible) can happen either in-person at Holland Bloorview or from home through a virtual meeting like Zoom.

  • The study session will be a single visit, lasting about 90 to 120 minutes.
  • During this time, they'll complete brief surveys to help us learn more about how young people with brain injuries use technology to connect with others and express themselves.

Interested in participating

If you are interested in participating in this study or have additional questions, please contact Lisa Kakonge at lkakonge@hollandbloorview.ca or (416) 425-6220, Ext. 6426 with your interest, and she will get back to you shortly. Contacting us does not obligate you to participate in the study.

This study is ongoing until recruitment is completed

Additional information

Version 1 (20/10/23) REB# 0654

Social Media Building Blocks (SMBB): Surveying computer-mediated communication (CMC) use among adolescents with an acquired brain injury (ABI)

Learn more about this study