The Relationship Between Maladaptive Behavior and Executive Dysfunction Following Traumatic Brain Injury in Children and Adolescents from a Parent Perspective

Date of Submission

2024

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Psychology (PsyD)

Department

Psychology

Department Chair

Jessica Kendorski, PhD, NCSP, BCBA

First Advisor

Jessica Kendorski, PhD, NCSP, BCBA

Second Advisor

George McCloskey, PhD

Third Advisor

Noah Sideman, PsyD, NCSP

Abstract

This study investigates the functional impairment of maladaptive behaviors following mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI), with a focus on the effects of executive dysfunction, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) comorbidity, gender differences, and recovery timeline. Through quantitative analysis, individuals with ADHD exhibited significantly higher baseline levels of maladaptive behaviors and experienced a more pronounced increase in symptom severity post-mTBI compared to peers without ADHD. Gender differences revealed that, although males reported more symptoms post-injury, functional impairment remained consistent across genders, potentially influenced by societal factors in symptom reporting. Additionally, the severity of maladaptive symptoms was greater in individuals within one year post-injury, emphasizing the critical role of early intervention and support. These findings highlight the need for individualized, multidisciplinary interventions and consideration of comorbid conditions in mTBI rehabilitation. Future research should examine the temporal relationship between ADHD diagnosis and mTBI, explore neural mechanisms underlying maladaptive behavior, and further address gender-specific needs in post-concussion recovery.

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