Abstract
Ph.D (Industrial Psychology)
Brain injuries often occur suddenly and without warning, and from that instant, a
normal life can be changed. Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) may result in significant
impairment of an individual’s physical, cognitive and psychosocial functioning.
Although there is a fair amount of research on the concept of brain damage and the
consequent effects on the family and return to work (RTW) prospects, there is far less
information available on the actual assessment of workplace capability or workplace
potential following the head injury incident. This is important, since the concept of work
or job value has been well documented. Employment is far more than just a job; it not
only provides for basic sustenance needs and decent living conditions, but also allows
someone to fit into the world, create relationships, use talents and skills, learn, grow
and build, and develop a sense of identity and belonging. While the value of work is
well-documented, the statistics regarding unemployment following a head injury are
concerning. It is estimated that approximately 1.5 million Americans sustain head
injuries each year, with the majority of these people being under the age of 35 and in
their prime years of vocational productivity. A baseline figure of 2% of the American
population is currently living with disabilities as a result of head injuries. In South
Africa, the rate of occurrence seems to be even more alarming, with published rates of
89,000 cases for 2009. In 2001, this was a baseline figure of 5% of the population
living with disabilities resulting from head injuries. Various sources put the occurrence
of head injuries in South Africa at 1.5 to 3.5 times higher than the estimated global
rate. The negative impact of this on the individual, the family, community and economy
is clear.