Abstract:
This study is a randomized controlled trial of a peer-mentoring program for both survivors and their caregivers. The focus of this study is to determine the efficacy of a peer-mentoring program and to examine the relationship of this mentoring program to three main outcome areas: 1) knowledge and skills regarding access to resources and services; 2) quality of life; and 3) community integration. Moderators of successful peer-mentoring such as injury severity, co-morbid physical disease, education, neuropsychological status of the survivor, coping style, and personality/emotional factors will also be examined. A participatory action framework will be employed for the program, as well as for implementation, dissemination, and evaluation.