This paper examines a sampling of the very current literature in the area of brain concussion. The purpose of this examination is to critically evaluate this literature. All of the reviewed studies were obtained using a random selection procedure in which several articles were randomly selected from a data base search conducted on brain concussion studies accomplished between 1987 and 1990. Because studies were randomly selected, it was assumed that the resulting sample was representative of the current work being done in the field.
Based on the assumption of representativeness, it was reasoned that by determining the degree of confidence which could be placed in the sample studies and by examining for the nature and type of the work that was done, it was possible to estimate the degree of confidence which could be placed in current findings generally. Furthermore, it was reasoned that the nature and type of work that had been done in the sample articles would be representative of the nature and type of work that was currently being conducted in the area.
Given the foregoing, it can be noted that once sample articles are examined and critiqued (discussed in terms of relevant methodological considerations), conclusions are formulated concerning the existing state of the current research.
According to Kolb and Whishaw (1989), brain concussion may be broadly defined as a condition of widespread paralysis of the functions of the brain that occurs immediately after a blow to the head. The importance of understanding the effects of brain concussion is highlighted when one considers that approximately 5 percent of the U.S. population suffers from head trauma yearly. Many of these injuries result in death and/or serious disability.
One very recent study of brain concussion was conducted by Jordan and Murdoch (1990). The purpose of this research was to examine both the speech and language functioning of a sample of 20 children ...