Validation of the Behavioral Dyscontrol Scale-Electronic Version: Sensitivity to subtle sequelae of mild traumatic brain injury

Abstract

Primary objective: To determine whether a new computer-administered battery (Behavioral Dyscontrol Scale-Electronic Version; BDS-EV) can detect subtle executive weaknesses among individuals with a self-reported history of mild head trauma (MHT), and to compare the utility of this battery to the original, non-electronic BDS and other traditional executive measures. Both BDS-EV and BDS are comprised of three factors (motor programming, environmental independence, and fluid intelligence).

Method: Participants with (n = 19) and without (n = 24) MHT were compared on their performance on the BDS-EV, the non-electronic BDS, and three traditional measures of executive abilities.

Results: Participants with MHT differed from those without MHT on the BDS-EV motor programming and environmental independence, but not on any other measures.

Conclusion: The results show that electronic administration improved the sensitivity of the battery, and support prior findings that traditional executive measures are generally insensitive to subtle executive deficits associated with chronic MHT.

• Executive
• Behavioral Dyscontrol Scale
• electronic tests
• neuropsychological assessment