Nonaphasic language disturbances after closed head injury

Abstract

Abstract Language disturbances after traumatic brain injury can be classified as aphasic or nonaphasic in nature. Disturbances in brain function which substantially influences symbolic modes of information processing and thereby compromise basic speaking, reading, and writing skills are typically referred to as dysphasic disorders. There are, however, other language disturbances which do not specifically influence these symbolic modes of processing, but do influence the communication process. These disorders, when they are not classically aphasic, are typically referred to as nonaphasic language disturbances. Young adult traumatic brain injured patients frequently show a substantial improvement in aphasic symptomotology, but nonaphasic language disturbances may persist for several years post injury. Moreover, these disturbances can greatly affect social adaptation. Disorders of overtalkativeness or verbal expansiveness, tangentiality in the expression of thoughts and free speech, and the use of peculiar phraseology are three such difficulties. This paper describes these phenomena in closed head injury patients. Both group data and individual case material are presented to describe these phenomena as they have emerged in the context of an intensive neuropsychologically oriented rehabilitation program for these individuals. Also, a discussion of a form of cognitive group therapy aimed at dealing with these problems is presented. The importance of these disturbances for overall social adjustment is illustrated and emphasized.