Traumatic brain injury (TBI) has long been recognized as a common cause of disability in children. However, few studies prior to the 1990s examined sources of individual differences in outcomes or considered potential treatment approaches. This presentation begins with a case example of the clinical dimensions of TBI and a brief review of well-documented effects of TBI on the brain and on children’s cognitive and behavioral functioning. Findings from a series of studies conducted by an Ohio-based research team since 1990 will then be presented to highlight progress in understanding and treating TBI. The clinical implications of the findings will also be considered. In addition to providing information on the nature and predictors of outcomes of pediatric TBI, the Ohio-based studies illustrates how research advancements have led to a more nuanced appreciation of the multiple influences on recovery from childhood brain injuries.

The talk will focus on Anna’s research evaluating the Teen Online Problem Solving (TOPS) intervention originally developed by Professor Shari Wade and colleagues. Anna will present findings from their feasibility randomised controlled trial (funded by the NIHR-Research for Patient Benefit) investigating the clinical and cost-effectiveness of delivering an adapted version of TOPS in the UK (adapted for use with children and adolescents with acquired brain injury). Anna will also discuss the lessons learnt from 14 studies investigating TOPS and other web-based family interventions conducted by Shari, Anna, and the international team.