A-36 Understanding Parental Knowledge of and Attitudes towards Youth Sport-Related Concussion

Abstract Objective The study objective was to examine parental knowledge of, and attitudes towards, youth sport-related concussion in a Canadian sample. Method A community sample of seventy-six families (n = 120 children) completed the study questionnaire comprised of demographic and sport history information, as well as questions about concussion knowledge (factual and perceived) and attitudes (i.e. concussion management and treatment attitudes). All participants had children actively involved in sport. Predominantly mothers completed the questionnaire (74%), and families ranged from one-to-three children (M age = 9 yr 5mth, SD = 2 yr 11mth). Results On average, parents achieved 76% accuracy on factual concussion knowledge (M = 21.19, SD = 2.55), with the majority (75%) perceiving their responses as accurate (perceived knowledge). Most parents displayed a favourable attitude toward concussion reporting and management (54/63; 85.7%). Families with low social risk status (SRS) had higher perceived knowledge compared to families with high SRS (t(60) = 2.29, p = .026), but not actual knowledge (p = .87). Mixed linear regression models were used to examine relationships between sociodemographic factors and concussion knowledge and attitudes. Higher SRS (F(1,74) = 9.60, p = .003) was related to lower perceived knowledge. Conclusions Families with higher SRS had less confidence in their youth sport-related concussion knowledge despite having accurate knowledge. Understanding sociodemographic factors associated with concussion attitudes and knowledge is an important first step for informing policies and keeping youth active in sports.