PSY FPX 7310 Assessment 4 Traumatic Brain Injuries

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Capella University

PSY FPX 7310 Biological Basis of Behavior

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Date

Abstract

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) present an escalating concern in contemporary society, primarily stemming from active participation in sports. Among TBIs, mild concussions resulting from moderate head-to-head contact are frequently diagnosed, displaying symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, or mild nausea. While some TBIs may be relatively minor, repetitive head trauma, prevalent in professional American football, boxing, or hockey, can lead to chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a neurodegenerative disease. This overview delves into the accountability for concussions, explores the effects and potential coping strategies for CTE, and discusses ethical dilemmas confronted by medical and psychological professionals. Further scrutiny in the realms of safety and neurological care is imperative to address the escalating complexity of brain-related injuries.

Introduction

Contemporary athletes continually jeopardize their well-being in the pursuit of sporting excellence. Particularly in football and boxing, frequent head impacts can result in traumatic brain injuries, notably chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). CTE, characterized by repetitive or episodic brain trauma, leads to progressive neurological deterioration. This paper scrutinizes the triggers of CTE, its emotional repercussions, and the societal challenges in effectively aiding affected individuals.

The Interplay of Emotion and Behavior

Emotions, whether positive or negative, denote subjective reactions to events or situations, influencing behavioral responses. The amygdala, situated in the brain’s limbic system, governs emotional processing and bodily responses. Research indicates a correlation between emotions and behaviors, influenced by hormonal pathways linking the amygdala and hypothalamus. While negative emotions often correlate with adverse behaviors, prosocial behaviors, like empathy, also emanate from emotional responses (Hein, Röder, & Fingerle, 2018).

Exploring Traumatic Brain Injuries and CTE

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) encompass alterations in brain function caused by external forces, prevalent in athletic environments, battlefields, or accidents. Approximately 1.7 million individuals seek medical attention annually for TBIs, with 2% of Americans enduring TBI-related symptoms daily. Concussions, a common TBI subtype, garner significant attention, especially in sports, with an estimated 1.6-3.8 million occurrences annually in athletic contexts (Brain Injury Research Institute, 2020). The responsibility for TBI consequences remains contentious, with arguments for athlete autonomy balanced against the duty of care owed by sports organizations (Pachman & Lamba, 2017).

Understanding the Impact of CTE on Emotions and Behaviors

CTE, primarily afflicting professional American football and boxing athletes, results from repetitive head trauma. Unlike concussions, CTE’s onset lacks a direct correlation with single traumatic events. Instead, the accumulation of tau proteins leads to neurofibrillary tangles, triggering symptoms such as memory loss, cognitive decline, and emotional instability (Tharmaratnam et al., 2018). Behavioral changes, including impulsivity and aggression, often manifest years after repeated head trauma, posing significant challenges for diagnosis and management.

Ethical Challenges in Addressing CTE and Traumatic Brain Injuries

Ethical considerations abound in managing traumatic brain injuries, particularly in athletics, where notions of resilience often prevail. Honest communication among athletes, coaches, and medical professionals is crucial for ensuring proper treatment and safeguarding against harm. Professional sports organizations face ethical imperatives to prioritize athlete welfare and minimize risks, balancing competitive ambitions with long-term health concerns.

Evidence-Based Interventions and Coping Mechanisms for CTE

Patients with TBIs have access to various interventions aimed at restoring cognitive function and emotional well-being. Brain Injury Coping Skills groups, facilitated by psychoeducators and psychotherapists, provide stress management and problem-solving strategies (Backhaus et al., 2010). Evidence suggests that group-based interventions enhance coping skills and functional outcomes, underscoring the importance of holistic approaches to TBI rehabilitation.

Conclusion

Traumatic brain injuries represent a pressing issue in sports, ranging from mild concussions to debilitating conditions like CTE. Advances in neuroscience and heightened awareness of injury risks have prompted proactive measures in athlete safety and rehabilitation. By prioritizing prevention and comprehensive care, society aims to create a safer environment for athletes, emphasizing long-term well-being over short-term gains.

References

Backhaus, S., Ibarra, S., Klyce, D., Trexler, L., & Malec, J. (2010). Brain injury coping skills group: A preventative intervention for patients with brain injury and their caregivers. Archives of physical medicine rehabilitation, 91, 840.

PSY FPX 7310 Assessment 4 Traumatic Brain Injuries

Boren, C. (2018). A new study shows that hits to the head, not concussions, cause CTE. Washington: WP Company LLC d/b/a The Washington Post. Retrieved from http://library.capella.edu/login?qurl=https%3A%2F%2Fsearch.proquest.com%2Fdocview %2F1988839360%3Faccountid%3D27965

Brain injury research institute. (2020). What is a concussion. Retrieved from https://www.protectthebrain.org/Brain-Injury-Research/What-is-a-Concussion-.aspx

Hein, S., Röder, M., & Fingerle, M. (2018). The role of emotion regulation in situational empathy‐related responding and prosocial behaviour in the presence of negative affect. International Journal of Psychology, 53, 477-485. http://dx.doi.org/10.1002.ijop.12405.

Pachman, S., & Lamba, A. (2017). Legal Aspects of Concussion: The Ever-Evolving Standard of Care. Journal of athletic training, 52(3), 186–194. https://doi.org/10.4085/1062-6050- 52.1.03

PSY FPX 7310 Assessment 4 Traumatic Brain Injuries

Tharmaratnam, T., Iskandar, M. A., Tabobondung, T. C., Tobbia, I., Gopee-Ramanan, P., & Tabobondung, T. A. (2018). Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy in Professional American Football Players: Where Are We Now?. Frontiers in neurology, 9, 445. https://doi.org/10.3389/fneur.2018.00445