Exploring the Concussion Experience Within Sport: An Authoethnographic Study

Abstract

Concussions are a highly individualized experience, with different profiles of expression encapsulating a diverse range of symptom sequalae. However, the lived through experience of those who have sustained a concussion oftentimes takes a backseat to the more standardized quantitative medical approach to healing. The purpose of this thesis is to engage and address gaps in literature and document the necessity and benefit of qualitative research to understand the nuances of the concussion experience by utilizing an autoethnographic approach and a Critical Disability Studies (CDS) method of writing termed “Disability Life Writing.” Additionally, this thesis attempts to remove a barrier to concussion information by presenting concussion knowledge in accessible terminology and language, aiming to make concussion awareness available to those without knowledge of medical terminology or discourse. Regarding concussions in sport, this thesis aims to illuminate hidden values and ideologies within a sporting culture that ultimately work to socialize an athlete to play through pain and hide/not disclose injuries such as a concussion to peers, coaches, or other members of the sporting culture. The author analyzed all the aims listed above through a CDS lens using core CDS concepts such as stigma, stereotyping, normalcy, and invisible disabilities as analytic touchstones.