Citation

Matthes J, Caples H. J. Head Trauma Rehabil. 2013; 28(2): 126-130.

Affiliation

Department of Clinical Neuropsychology, Barrow Neurological Institute, St Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, Arizona.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2013, Lippincott Williams and Wilkins)

DOI

10.1097/HTR.0b013e31822cc3dd

PMID

22166922

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:: To explore ethical issues in using deception to improve participation in a patient with severe traumatic brain injury who had not responded to traditional behavioral and pharmacologic approaches. DESIGN:: Case study. PARTICIPANT:: A male in inpatient neurorehabilitation with history of severe traumatic brain injury and significant behavioral disruption that limited his therapy participation. METHODS:: Behavior modification program using principles of operant conditioning that required deception. RESULTS:: Participation in therapies significantly improved and disruptive behaviors decreased. CONCLUSION:: When used cautiously and with careful consideration of the ethical implications, deception may be permissible as part of an intervention strategy with this population but only as a last resort.

Language: en