The impact of adolescent development on recovery from traumatic brain injury.

This article analyzes the role an adolescent's development plays in the recovery from traumatic brain injury. Erikson's model of psychosocial development is used to describe the characteristics of the adolescent head-injured patient. The role of family, peers, body image, and sexuality are discussed. Suggestions are offered regarding ways in which the rehabilitation practitioner can conduct comprehensive patient and family counseling and promote optimal developmental recovery after discharge from the rehabilitation facility.