The Impact of Injury Severity on Executive Function 7–10 Years Following Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury

Abstract

The impact of pediatric traumatic brain injury (TBI) on executive function (EF) development is well documented, with more severe injury associated with poorer outcome. Few studies have investigated the impact of pediatric TBI on EF in the long-term post-injury. The current study explored the relationship between injury severity and EF in participants with childhood TBI, following the transition into adulthood. The sample included 36 participants who had sustained TBI between 8–12 years of age. At 7–10 years post-injury, they now ranged between 16–22 years of age. Findings indicated that adolescents and young adults who suffered a more severe TBI during childhood tended to display a higher degree of executive dysfunction, but only in specific EF domains.