Social Skills Training

An individual who has experienced a traumatic brain injury (TBI) often has difficulties with social skills. Social skills include assertiveness, social communication and problem- solving skills. An individual who has suffered a TBI may have challenges with social interactions due to changes in his or her behaviors and emotions as a result of the injuries. An individual with a TBI may have difficulty with relationships and the ability to effectively communicate his or her desires in a problem situation or a high-conflict situation^[1].

Assertiveness is a way of expressing thoughts and feelings in a constructive way rather than in an aggressive or confrontational way. An individual who has a TBI often has difficulties expressing wants or ideas. When he or she is upset, his or her ability to communicate can be disrupted by emotions. Frustration and anger are common emotions that can interfere with effective communication. Social skills training allows individual to practice his or her self-expression in a safe environment. It can help the individual find his or her voice.

Social communication involves sending and receiving messages to and from others. It is the ability to understand others and what others meant to say. It is also the ability to express thoughts and feelings in a way others can understand. These abilities to communicate are hindered after a TBI. A few examples of social communication are starting and ending a conversation, staying on topic, turn taking and eye contact[2].

Problem-solving skills and conflict resolution are very helpful for the individual who has a TBI because many have trouble with self-expression. This trouble leads to frustration and negative responses and behaviors. Social skills training helps the individual improve how he or she approaches problems to come to a peaceful solution. Recovery from a TBI has many challenges and, often, stressful situations arise.

Poor social skills have a negative effect on relationships, social integration or employment. Social skills training can improve social skills by using role playing, repetition and rehearsal. The more often an individual is able to practice new, positive behaviors the better he or she will be able to communicate effectively and reduce frustration.

NeuLife, in Mount Dora, Florida, is a fully accessible residential post-acute program providing superior care and specialized rehabilitation to individuals diagnosed with traumatic brain injury (TBI), spinal cord injury (SCI), traumatic amputations and other catastrophic injuries. NeuLife provides excellent neurobehavioral and related services to help an individual cope with the feelings associated with living through a traumatic accident.

2725 Robie Avenue
Mount Dora, Florida 32757