Contemporary approaches to the management of irritability and aggression following traumatic brain injury

Abstract

In this paper, the principal means of managing irritability and aggression following traumatic brain injury (TBI) will be briefly reviewed. The paper will initially consider the prevalence of irritability, what it is and some of the likely causes that drive the condition. Aggression will then be similarly contemplated. Prior to a discussion regarding those methods most regularly employed in their management, the attention of the reader will be directed to a range of methodological issues that need to be considered in relation to reporting treatment efficacy, including lack of homogeneity and the need to use standardised assessment tools. Three principal management approaches will then be described and appraised, these being pharmacology, psychotherapy, and behaviour therapy. Within the discussion of psychotherapeutic methods, special mention will be made with regard to use of cognitive behaviour therapy, and two detailed case studies will be employed to illustrate issues relating to both cognitive behaviour therapy and behaviour therapy.