ABSTRACT
Changes in personality and behaviour are common following acquired brain injury (ABI). Behavioural challenges are often, over and above any other presenting problem, also the most difficult to tolerate in education settings and the most significant barrier to integration and to learning. The family environment plays an important part in the development of all children and young people, including developmental changes of children and young people following ABI. Anti-convulsant or other medication may affect a student's learning capabilities and behaviour. There can be a wide range of emotional and physical reactions displayed following any severe traumatic event and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can be experienced by both adults and children. Rapid physical and emotional changes and a wish to develop greater autonomy and independence from the family can increase the desire to engage in exciting and risk-taking behaviour. Education staff must be aware that students with ABI, particularly adolescents, are at increased risk from mental health difficulties following ABI.
