Self-Awareness of Deficits following Acquired Brain Injury: Considerations

Limitations in self-awareness of deficits after acquired brain injury can hamper client participation In rehabilitation programmes. The concept of self-awareness encompasses awareness of brain injury related deficits, an appreciation of the functional consequences of deficits, and the ability to translate that Infor-mation into realistic goals. A literature review suggests that the development of self-awareness can be associated with emotional distress in the individual. self-awareness and emotional adjustment factors may both affect behavioural change in the indJvidual, which may influence outcome. Thewidely held belief that self-awareness is necessary for successful outcomes from rehabilitation requires further Investigation