A Model for Pediatric Neurocognitive Interventions: Considering the Role of Development and Maturation in Rehabilitation Planning

Abstract

The need for post-acute neurorehabilitation after childhood acquired brain injury is increasingly recognized but recent reviews highlight the limited evidence-base and lack of a neuropsychological treatment model. Evidence from different fields was reviewed to inform the development of a pediatric neurocognitive interventions (PNI) model. The review included literature from child neuropsychology, adult neuropsychology, cognitive neuroscience, learning disabilities, education, and mental health. The resulting PNI model provides a systematic approach to delivering and evaluating appropriate care while minimizing the obstacles to successful outcomes. The model emphasizes the role of development and cognitive maturation in the planning of rehabilitation. Areas that represent significant gaps in our knowledge are discussed and future research directions are suggested based on predictions generated by the proposed model.

Keywords:

• Children
• Brain injury
• Cognitive rehabilitation.

Acknowledgments

We would like to thank the reviewers and Professor Shari Wade for their invaluable comments on this manuscript.

Notes

¹ “Scaffolding occurs when experts are sensitive to the abilities of a novice and respond contingently to the novice’s responses in a learning situation so that the novice gradually increases his or her understanding of a problem” Bjorklund, 2012, p.84.