Functional assessment of executive abilities following traumatic brain injury.
OBJECTIVE
The Test of Functional Executive Abilities (TOFEA) is a measure of real-world planning/problem-solving abilities. The present study sought to identify the relationship between the TOFEA and traditional executive measures.


METHODS
Correlational and principal components factor analyses were conducted using the TOFEA and traditional neuropsychological executive measures.


METHODS
Participants were 340 patients with traumatic brain injury. All participants underwent neuropsychological and speech-language assessments.


RESULTS
Factor analysis of the TOFEA yielded a two-factor solution, planning/initiation and awareness/comprehension. Correlational analysis between the TOFEA and traditional measures demonstrated only a weak relationship. Factor analysis indicated a four factor executive solution with the TOFEA loading on the third planning/initiation and reasoning factor.


CONCLUSIONS
The data support the notion that there is no one single measure of frontal-executive functioning, but rather these tests represent different executive components and, as such, more than one measure should be used in a comprehensive assessment.
Bamdad
Michael J
MJ
Defense and Veterans Head Injury Program, Uniformed Services University of The Health Sciences, Washington, DC, USA. mbamdad@gwu.edu
Ryan
Laurie M
LM
Warden
Deborah L
DL
D000328:Adult; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D005625:Frontal Lobe / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009483:Neuropsychological Tests; D011340:Problem Solving; D011594:Psychometrics; D017748:Time Management