Question
What are the advantages of therapy groups when treating executive cognitive deficits in patients with TBI?
Answer
Executive cognitive deficits are very common in patients with TBI. One cognitive deficit noted is decreased self awareness and this is commonly associated with damage to the frontal lobe. It is important for a client to increase their self awareness through natural interactions with peers. One way this can be achieved is through group therapy.
There are many advantages to group therapy. Group therapy can provide the therapist with information on how the client is likely to interact in the larger society. It is a "social microcosm" in which to view a client's behavior.
It can also provide the client with feedback related to their social functioning. As the clients become familiar with each other, they will begin to provide feedback to each other which is a more natural process than in a 1:1 interaction with a therapist.
Group therapy can also promote appropriate behaviors. As they form relationships, they will work harder to gain positive feedback from the group which will motivate them to set goals and work toward them.
