Expression of masculine identity in individuals with a traumatic brain injury

ABSTRACT

Primary objective: This research seeks to examine and describe how four males with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) use language to negotiate their masculine identities. Research design: Qualitative research methods were employed with a ‘case study’ design that allows for a detailed description of the cases, and the interactions examined. Methods and procedures: The tools of inquiry applied included a topic analysis, as well as linguistic analysis methods that incorporated the theory of Systemic Functional Linguistics. Such tools were employed in the analysis of 12, two-hour group treatment sessions in order to describe how linguistic choices contributed to the construction of a masculine identity in communicative interactions. Main outcomes and results: Although all participants had significant difficulties with cognitive communication, they all demonstrated an ability to use language to assert their masculine identities. Results revealed that prominent topics used to assert masculinity included confidence, women, risk-taking behaviour and interests and that expressions of masculinity often occurred in giving information roles and involved appraisal and modality. Conclusions: The results have implications for the development of rehabilitation interventions for social communication that provide individuals with TBI with the linguistic tools and communication opportunities necessary in order to successfully express identity and reveal masculinity.

KEYWORDS:

• Behaviour
• gender
• language
• linguistic analysis

Declaration of interest

Louise C. Keegan received an Advancing Academic Research Careers (AARC) Award from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association in order to complete this research. Macy Murdock was awarded a Graduate Research Associate Mentorship (GRAM) Award from Appalachian State University’s Graduate School in order to work on this project during her graduate studies.