Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can cause a range of physical effects, but in severe cases emotional and behavioral effects may also occur. Both the victims of TBI and their families find it hard to cope with these changes, especially when the changes are profound. Brainline explains some of the consequences of TBI.
Lack of judgement
You use your judgement every day to make innumerable decisions. For a person with TBI, the ability to evaluate a situation and make a reasonable determination on how to proceed is far more difficult. As a result, TBI victims experience problems making decisions, which can be a detriment to their health and well-being. Problem-solving can also be impacted, which might leave a person frustrated and confused on a regular basis.
Problems socializing
Social skills are crucial to make and maintain interpersonal relationships. A serious brain injury can impact these skills, and a result a person often have issues understanding facial cues, be unable to initiate a conversation, or find it difficult to tell when a conversation has ended. Lack of social skills can also come across as insensitive. For instance, a person might make rude statements without considering the consequences of the remarks.
Lack of impulse control
Much like judgement, impulse control is key for making smart, reasonable decisions. For instance, people with TBI often act before thinking, as they lack the ability to pause and assess the situation before making a decision. Uncontrolled impulsivity can lead to risk-taking behaviors that endanger the person’s life as well as the lives of others. It can also make it difficult to maintain gainful employment or have a healthy relationship with friends and family.
