Behavioral consequences of pediatric traumatic brain injury

Abstract

Behavioral problems are common after pediatric traumatic brain injury (TBI), but poorly understood. In this article we review ten common behavioral problems observed in children after TBI and consider the factors that appear to contribute to their expression. Both neurological and non-neurological variables can interact in a complicated way to produce behavioral problems in school-age children following TBI. We conclude with suggestions for the management and treatment of these behavioral problems in a manner that hopefully will reduce parental distress and disruptive behaviors of the child in school.