Journal CME January 2025, The importance of language in describing concussions: A qualitative analysis-PM R - 2024 - Knowles - The importance of language in describing concussions A qualitative analysis

PM R - 2024 - Knowles - The importance of language in describing concussions A qualitative analysis

Pdf Summary

The study titled "The importance of language in describing concussions" investigates how the language used to describe concussions influences perceptions of their severity. Researchers conducted one-on-one semi-structured telephone interviews with 94 participants, including athletes, coaches, parents, educators, and an athletic director involved in high school sports. The study found that individuals who used the term "brain" when discussing concussions perceived them as more severe, particularly among coaches. The investigation highlighted the potential impact of medical terminology on the perceived severity of concussions and its influence on behavior regarding concussion reporting.<br /><br />This study situates itself within the larger context of addressing undiagnosed concussions, which present significant long-term health risks, especially among youth. Proper reporting and diagnosis are often dependent on concussion self-reporting by athletes. It was found that knowing more about concussions does not necessarily correlate with a higher likelihood of reporting incidences. Instead, an individual's attitudes, beliefs, and the language used in describing injuries influenced their reporting behavior.<br /><br />The findings suggest that using precise and accurate language, such as referring to concussions with "brain" terminology, might enhance concussion education programs by influencing attitudes and potentially increasing reporting behaviors. The study underscores the importance of how language shapes perceptions and decisions surrounding concussion experiences. Moreover, it points to the potential for educational interventions that emphasize medical terminology for concussions to improve athletes' health outcomes.<br /><br />The study calls for careful attention to the language used scientifically, educationally, and in the media to ensure that the severity of concussions is neither understated nor overstated, thereby promoting appropriate medical evaluation and care. The research highlights an understudied facet of concussion management: the role of vocabulary in influencing mental and behavioral processes related to sports injuries.

Keywords

language

concussions

perceptions

severity

reporting

terminology

education

youth sports

health outcomes

behavior