Date of Conferral

2021

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Denise Horton

Abstract

Empirical evidence suggests that female collegiate athletes participating in soccer are likely to suffer from TBI and subsequent concussion syndrome. Studies further indicate that TBI adversely affects the quality of life of athletes both on an academic level and social life. This study examined data with the intent to fill existing gaps in the current literature and focused on the experiences of NCAA female collegiate soccer athletes who have suffered TBI and neurocognitive deficit symptoms in verbal memory and reactional time. This quantitative research method relied on the theory of mind (ToM) as the theoretical basis to investigate research questions in investigating TBI's relationship and an individual's cognitive performance in verbal and reaction time. This quantitative study relied on a de-identified secondary dataset from the ImPACT injury database to evaluate baseline and post injury TBI evaluations, assessed injuries, and cognitive domains. The data were analyzed with descriptive statistics, paired sample t tests and independent sample t tests. There were significant differences in reaction time, but not statistically significant in verbal working memory. The implications of the study for positive change included the provision of insight into practical strategies for better management of the challenges associated with TBI to enable effect minimization of the cognitive deficits on the athlete's social and academic life. The study findings will therefore facilitate the development of strategies to enhance safety in sport.

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