Theses and Dissertations

Date of Award

8-2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Rehabilitation Counseling

First Advisor

Rommel Johnson

Second Advisor

Noreen Graf

Third Advisor

Saara Grizzell

Abstract

The incidence of acquired brain injuries continues to rise world-wide resulting in increased disability status and national costs related to these injuries (Ahonle et al., 2020; BIAA, 2024; CDC, 2003; CDC, 2015; CDC, 2023; Grigorovich, et al., 2017; Tyerman et al., 2017). Long-term health effects associated with acquired brain injuries have social and environmental impacts that influence the individual with the injury beyond acute treatment and rehabilitation (Ahonle et al., 2020; CDC, 2023; Frieden et al., 2015; Grigorovich, et al., 2017; Tyerman et al., 2017). This, in turn, affects employment as many individuals with brain injuries are unable to return to or maintain work. Research continues to support how crucial employment is in the recovery process as it impacts a person’s quality of life after injury. Additionally, research supports the need for the use of vocational services in the acquisition and maintenance of employment. (Ahonle et al., 2020; Catalano et al., 2006; Johnston, et al., 2022). Job satisfaction, which describes how content an employee feels while at work, has become an area identified in the research that further substantiates the well-being of employees with disabilities (Brooks, 2019; Steverson & Crudden, 2023). Despite sufficient research to support challenges associated with employment for individuals with brain injuries, little is known on the impact that job satisfaction has on employment. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the job satisfaction among individuals with acquired brain injury and the vocational services utilized by this population. Twenty-five participants responded to demographic questions and a modified version of the Job Satisfaction Survey. Participants in the study were older adults with higher levels of education and reported that they work in different roles post-injury. Results of the study found that the majority of individuals with acquired brain injury were satisfied with their current place of employment. The study, while limited by a small sample and self-report bias, emphasizes that providing inclusive work environments, effective support systems, and coordinated vocational and medical strategies are crucial for enhancing employment outcomes and retention for individuals with acquired brain injuries.

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Copyright 2025 Claudia Eliza Gonzalez. All Rights Reserved.

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