UNDERSTANDING, EVALUATING, AND MANAGING ATTENTION DISORDERS FOLLOWINGTRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY

Disorders of attention are among the most frequently reported problems following traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, considerable disagre ement exists regarding the most appropriate definitions and conceptual izations of attention. This article addresses several issues related t o attentional disorders following TBI. First, we summarize the types o f attentional impairments observed in TBI. Next, we describe several m ulticomponent models of attention. We discuss the merits and applicabi lity of each model and suggest psychometric approaches to the assessme nt of attention based on these models. Finally, we summarize controver sies and relevant research findings with regard to the rehabilitation of individuals with attentional disorders.