Journal article
A Review of the Literature on Pediatric Concussions and Return-to-Learn (RTL): Implications for RTL Policy, Research, and Practice
Rehabilitation psychology, Vol.62(3), pp.300-323
08/01/2017
DOI: 10.1037/rep0000155
PMID: 28836810
Abstract
Objective: While reintegration of concussed youth back into sports has been increasingly studied over the past decade, a noticeably lacking yet growing body of research has begun to focus on issues surrounding return to academics or "return-to-learn" (RTL). The objective of this article was to conduct a comprehensive literature review to identify the full range of themes and gaps in the current body of RTL research. Study design: Researchers analyzed PubMed, PsycINFO, and ERIC databases to identify all recent (January 2000 through May 2016) empirical publications on the RTL process following youth concussions. In addition to the database searches, bibliographies of selected manuscripts were handsearched for additional sources. Results: A total of 35 articles met inclusion criteria. Key themes identified from the RTL literature centered on academic outcomes, physician recommendations, length of time to complete RTL, concussion-related symptom difficulties, and academic accommodations/guidelines. Across these areas, the research was fairly inconsistent in terms of providing clear conclusions, likely because of the small number of studies conducted within these areas as well as variability in methodology and terminology. Gaps in the research include a lack of the following: consensus on RTL protocols, agreement on prescription of cognitive rest, guidance for RTL legislation, understanding of communication between systems of care, concussion-related education for systems of care, evidence-based programs or interventions for RTL, and the impact on RTL outcomes. Conclusions: Given the inconsistencies in RTL literature, more rigorous research is needed to inform concussion policy and practice to assist with pediatric concussion management.
Details
- Title: Subtitle
- A Review of the Literature on Pediatric Concussions and Return-to-Learn (RTL): Implications for RTL Policy, Research, and Practice
- Creators
- Jilian A. O'Neill - University of AlabamaMolly K. Cox - University of Alabama at BirminghamOlivio J. Clay - University of Alabama at BirminghamJames M. Johnston - University of Alabama at BirminghamThomas A. Novack - University of Alabama at BirminghamDavid C. Schwebel - University of Alabama at BirminghamLaura E. Dreer - University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Resource Type
- Journal article
- Publication Details
- Rehabilitation psychology, Vol.62(3), pp.300-323
- DOI
- 10.1037/rep0000155
- PMID
- 28836810
- NLM abbreviation
- Rehabil Psychol
- ISSN
- 0090-5550
- eISSN
- 1939-1544
- Publisher
- Educational Publishing Foundation-American Psychological Assoc
- Number of pages
- 24
- Grant note
- Children's of Alabama at Birmingham's Department of Neurosurgery Foundation for Rehabilitation Psychology (FRP) of Division 22 Rehabilitation Psychology (American Psychological Association) University of Alabama at Birmingham's Department of Neurosurgery Wise Up! Concussion Initiative of the Al and Sharyne Wallace Foundation
- Language
- English
- Date published
- 08/01/2017
- Academic Unit
- Research Administration
- Record Identifier
- 9984949457502771
Metrics
4 Record Views