Document Type
Honors Thesis
Publication Date
5-2012
Abstract
Recent evidence has shown that concussions are more serious than previously anticipated, particularly in young adults. Football is one of the sports in which concussions are most commonly seen. It is important for high schools to educate, diagnose and manage concussions correctly to prevent the occurrence of potentially catastrophic events like second impact syndrome. Through interviews and observations of practices and games, three Eastern Maine high schools were assessed to evaluate their concussion policies. Administrators, coaches and medical personnel were interviewed regarding their concussion awareness. Through a qualitative coding process, themes were found and assessed. Themes found included: honesty; misconceptions; testing and assessment; knowledge of players; personal connection; education; communication; changes in point of view over time; and Maine Principals’ Association oversight. Based on the themes, recommendations and a conceptual framework for concussion management were developed to unify concussion management policies throughout Eastern Maine high schools.
Recommended Citation
Lockhart, Sarah K., "Concussion Management, Education and Diagnosis in Eastern Maine High School Football" (2012). Honors College. 65.
https://digitalcommons.library.umaine.edu/honors/65