Models of exceptional adaptation in recovery after traumatic brain injury: a case series.
OBJECTIVE
The remarkable persistence of disablement in chronic traumatic brain injury and the dearth of accommodation define the condition as a disorder of adaptation. This construct is extended to explain exceptional recoveries after postacute treatment.


METHODS
Nine severely injured graduates of holistic cognitive rehabilitation were selected for their exceptional postmorbid academic, vocational, and social accomplishments.


RESULTS
In interviews, they attributed their successes to continuing reliance on, and ongoing elaboration and modification of, cognitive compensation strategies. Unlike their disabled cohorts, they implement a deliberate procedure for self-corrective self-management that minimizes the functional impact of their permanent deficits.
Schutz
Larry E
LE
Department of Speech Sciences and Communication Disorders, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL 32828, USA. edsyke@earthlink.net
D000063:Accidents, Traffic; D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D001930:Brain Injuries / Q000523:psychology* / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D003072:Cognition Disorders / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D020127:Recovery of Function; D012917:Social Adjustment