The Behavioural Assessment of Self-Structuring (BASS): A Factor Analysis in a Post-Acute Brain Injury Rehabilitation Programme

Abstract

Research has indicated structure and a client’s ability to self-structure is integral to post-acute brain injury rehabilitation. Self-structuring has previously been theorised to include components referred to as Anchors, Scaffolding, and Strategies. A reliable and validated measure of self-structuring – The Behavioural Assessment of SelfStructuring (BASS) – was used in the current study aimed to identify possible sub-groups of the scale and further explore construct validity. 197 consecutive admissions to the Transitional Rehabilitation Units (TRU) were assessed using the BASS and the results were subjected to a varimax rotation factor analysis. Four factors were revealed, all of which could be related to the theoretical model of self-structuring including Systems (Scaffolding), Routines (Anchors), Awareness and Self-Regulation (both emerging as two sub-divisions of Strategies). Despite orthogonality, all four factors were highly correlated. Only age at brain injury and cause of brain injury showed a significant relationship with Awareness (Strategies), Routines (Anchors), and Systems (Scaffolding). No significant relationship was found for gender, age at admission or length of admission. In conclusion, the findings are consistent with previous research and confirm theoretical models of self-structuring. Further insight has been gained into the complexities of self-structuring as the results propose compelling evidence that the 26-items of the BASS can now be sub-divided into four distinct sub-categories: Awareness, Systems, Routines, and Self-Regulation. Sub-categories can now be utilised to identify individual strengths and areas of weakness within self-structuring. This can inform the adaptation of neurorehabilitation programmes or approaches dependent on client need, and change in scores could be evaluated over time.