Female body image following acquired brain injury

Primary objective: To investigate body image concerns and psycho-emotional health in females with acquired brain injury (ABI). Research design: Between subjects design. Methods and procedures: Thirteen females with ABI and thirteen matched controls were assessed on a number of variables relating to body image, self-esteem and affect. Main outcomes and results: Indicated that women with ABI had a different profile of body image dissatisfaction than controls and that in some areas it was significantly worse. The women with ABI had significantly lower self-esteem and higher levels of depression than controls and this related to body image. Conclusion: Significant changes in body image and self-concept are potentially damaging to quality of life post-injury and suggest a role for targeted therapeutic work with women with ABI.