KIDS OF PARENTS WITH A TBI [ back to What's New ]
In April 1999 Childhood Trends, Inc., a non-profit Washington, D.C. group concerned with the well being of children, issued a report stating that one-eighth of parents in this country have significant (partially disabling) health problems which may have serious adverse psychological consequences for their children. A child raised by a parent who suffers from chronic depression, pain or fatigue, is forced to deal with a parent who removes herself emotionally and physically, and may view this as rejection by the parent. A parent who suffers from reduced frustration tolerance, heightened irritability and poor short term memory, may repeatedly yell and scream at her child and not remember doing it.  This is hurtful and confusing to the child, because she sees and feels the inconsistency in her parent's behavior and moods, but the parent acts as if everything is OK. What can be done? Education, awareness and counseling are critical. A good MFCC (marriage, family and child counselor) with experience in the dynamics of parental brain injury in the family can be of immeasurable help. The treating neuropsychologist should address the issue and make the referral.