There's Always Something That Works: Principles and Practices of Positive Support for Individuals with Traumatic Brain Injury and Problem Behaviors

Abstract

Behavioral and cognitive problems are among the most common and troubling consequences of traumatic brain injury Furthermore, behavioral and cognitive challenges typically develop in complex ways, necessitating an integrated approach to intervention and supports. This article summarizes literature on interventions positively affecting the behavioral outcomes for individuals with brain injury. This literature extends many of the traditional approaches to behavioral intervention and cognitive rehabilitation to include positive behavioral support and the development of personally meaningful activities for program development. In addition, the article provides a framework for intervention based on the decades-long work of Mark Ylvisaker, which is founded on positive principles of assessment and treatment and is implemented in a context-sensitive manner that integrates cognitive and behavioral intervention themes and focuses on the development of self-regulation.

KEYWORDS

Positive behavior supports - behavior - cognition - cognitive rehabilitation - self-regulation - rehabilitation - traumatic brain injury

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