Philip Howard

Citation

Thesis Title
Enabling face-name recognition after brain injury using mobile technology

Read article at Massey Research Online:

Difficulties with memory are common after brain injury, including difficulties recalling faces and names. Mr Howard’s research included the development of an iPhone application to support face-naming for people with moderate to severe brain injuries and face-naming difficulties. He tested three hypotheses using a series of a single-case research design studies: that the application would be effective in improving face-naming, that improved face-naming would result in improved social interactions, and that improved face-naming would result in improved wellbeing. The application produced dramatic improvements in functional face naming for all participants. Approximately half of the participants showed improvements in reported social interactions associated with the intervention, while fewer than half reported improvements in wellbeing. A significant correlation was found between how often the application was used and changes in wellbeing. Face-naming difficulties have been associated with increased social isolation and reduced wellbeing, so finding and refining an effective intervention is important.

Supervisors
Dr Duncan Babbage
Professor Janet Leathem